Catriona Johnston: Young Balloch baker raises money for Robin House

Catriona Johnston, 10, got her love for baking at a very early age from her gran Lindsey.

Her proud mum Caroline told the Reporter: “Her gran was the main baker in our house. Catriona baked with her since she was very little and developed a love for it.

“She will take pieces from different recipes and put them together. She loves trying new things. One night I was reading my book and she came through with a whole plate of cupcakes with shards of chocolate in them and I honestly don’t know how she did it.”

The Renton Primary school pupil was inspired to start her own business CJs Home Baking after helping out with her uncle Chris’ takeaway business.

She would be the “Little Chef” to “Chef” and tell him what she thought of his recipes.

After her family and friends convinced her to start selling the baked goods, she decided to donate £1 for every box she sells to children’s hospice Robin House after being involved with the charity for years.

Caroline added: “We thought it was a good idea to team up with them as we have always helped out with the charity over the years by doing the clean-up every October.

“She began with Mother’s Day boxes which contained four different items which were her signature raspberry brownies which are unbelievable, little stars, a cupcake with pink icing and Biscoff millionaire shortbread.

“As a lot of people knew the money was getting donated to CHAS they were very generous and would give us £10 per box instead of six.

“She absolutely loves doing it. She loves organising the boxes and the accounts. I think it is a great learning tool and I am so proud of her.”

Catriona managed to raise £58 by selling 25 boxes, but she is now hoping to sell 40 Easter themed boxes this time.

She would like to thank everyone for their kindness, generosity and the support they have given her.

She has since applied for the next series of hit tv show Junior Bake off .

Visit her Facebook page at cjshomebaking.