ScotS medical student James Morton has missed out on being crowned Britain's best baker.

Mr Morton, who is from Shetland but is studying at Glasgow University, was pipped to the Great British Bake Off title by John Whaite.

Mr Whaite, 23, was recently awarded a first-class law degree from Manchester University and said the double challenge of completing his course while perfecting his pastry on the hit TV show actually helped him rise to the top.

He said: "If I hadn't been in the middle of the degree I'm not sure I would have won.

"It meant I had to be organised and know what I needed for the exam and what I needed for baking and it helped me concentrate.

"I don't think I'd have got such a good grade without Bake Off. It was tough, though.

"I finished one exam on a Friday and went to Bristol to film the semi-final before getting home late on Sunday in time for another exam on Monday."

Wigan-born Mr Whaite was crowned the winner after creating a puff pastry pie called a pithivier, fondant fancies and chiffon sponges for the final challenges. His creations have also included an enormous gingerbread Colosseum.

Last night he credited his partner, Paul, with some of his success. He said: "He's a graphic designer, he does birthday cards and I do the cakes. With the Colosseum he drew up a template on the computer so that was a team effort."

Mr Whaite, who plans to release a recipe book and swap law school for pastry classes, said he has been surprised by the show's success.

The BBC2 programme, presented by Mel Giedroyc and Sue Perkins and featuring judges Mary Berry and Paul Hollywood, has been one of hit shows of the year. Last week it pulled in 5.6 million viewers.

It has sparked a baking revival and has its own line of official merchandise.