Great British Bake Off contestant – and the new 2024 series’ first star baker – John Mincher was fired from Lloyds bank after an investigation, it has been reported.
The 37-year-old was allegedly fired over accusations that he misused a system intended to pay compensation to customers and stole thousands of pounds.
Now an NHS co-ordinator, ex-colleagues of Mincher’s during his time at Lloyds claim the Channel 4 newbie was sacked from his job in finance seven years ago.
One former colleague told The Sun: ‘I could not believe it when I saw him on Bake Off. I almost spat out my tea. Loads of people remember what happened.
‘When he was sacked, it happened in a very dramatic fashion.
‘He was accused of going into a system used to pay compensation to customers.’
The source added that he was a manager and popular within the company, so people were shocked and upset when he was allegedly sacked.
The amateur baker was said to have headed the complaints unit at Lloyds HQ in Pendeford, Wolverhampton.
When approached for comment, a Lloyds Banking Group spokesperson told Metro.co.uk: ‘We do not comment on individual colleagues.’
A show spokesperson said in a statement sent to Metro.co.uk: ‘Prior to filming, Bake Off undertakes robust background checks which are a compulsory requirement for contributors to be able to participate in the programme.’
Having received the coveted Paul Hollywood handshake for his efforts in the first round of the baking show, John whizzed into the second round and was crowned star baker.
Taking to social media after the episode aired, the West Midlands-born Directorate Support Manager wrote: ‘Happy Friday!!! What an incredible week it has been! I may, or may not be partaking in a few margarita’s this weekend to celebrate! Whatever you’re up to this weekend, ENJOY!’
Announcing he would be appearing on the show, John wrote on Instagram: ‘Ermmmm…. SURPRISE!!!! The hardest secret to keep is finally out… I am taking part in Series 15 of THE GREAT BRITISH BAKE OFF!
‘I am still pinching myself! I made it into the Bake Off Tent! Not only has it been the best experience of my life, I have made 11 best friends who I’ll cherish always and I am forever part of the Bake Off family! EEEEK!!!.’
John – who has also been a hairdresser and estate agent in the past – learned to bake with his nan, making fairy cakes and pies.
Among the bakers for 2024 are a palliative care nurse, a student on her gap year and a dad who moved to Yorkshire in the 80s after growing up in the Bronx.
The hit show – which has a little less hype around it than usual this year – returned to Channel 4 on Tuesday September 24 with the 15th season.
Paul is joined again by judge Dame Prue Leith, while presenters Noel Fielding and Alison Hammond return to presenting duties.
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The Great British Bake Off airs on Tuesday at 8pm on Channel 4.
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