Episode 7

It’s the final week of heats, which can only mean one thing: five more celebrities have a shot at this year’s title. Six have already made it to the semi-finals, but getting there will require some culinary magic. The group must prove they have the knack to go all the way as they brace themselves for three incredibly demanding challenges set by judges Grace Dent and John Torode.

The last group to brave the MasterChef kitchen include national singing treasure Alfie Boe OBE, rugby legend Alun Wyn Jones OBE, reality TV star Ashley Cain, gladiator Jodie Ounsley and comedian Noreen Khan.

First up, it’s time to pray to the cooking gods as the celebs play 'under the cloche'. It’s pot luck as they lift their lids to reveal their ingredient. Whatever they pick will need some love, care and attention, as it has to be the star of their first dish. Can they pimp up a prawn or celebrate some salmon? Will they have any idea what a romanesco is? The larder is stuffed full of goodies that can be used to complement their delectable dishes. The judges aren’t expecting miracles at this stage, but they will be looking for something edible.

Having hopefully won over the judges, the celebs get another chance to prove their taste buds truly work as they face the palate test. Taking it in turns, they each try a cube of a tasty treat and aim to identify it. The judges don’t want this to be a walk in the park, so the celebs are all blindfolded for the duration of the task. If they fail to name it correctly, they will be eliminated from the round. The one left standing will be given a potential lifesaver in the next round: ten extra minutes, which can make all the difference.

The final stop is the Celebrity MasterChef street food market, which so far has been doing a roaring trade in the heats. Can this group manage to outdo previous offerings? They each need to send the judges to gastronomy heaven with one knockout dish that would sell by the bucket load from their own food truck. The judges will be after something comforting, even a little naughty, as this should be a real treat. This is the first time the celebs are cooking their own food, so it will be a good indication of who has serious potential.

There’s no elimination, but those lagging behind will need to up their game sharpish, as next time the pressure will soar to a level none of them can prepare for.