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30 October 2018, 14:13 | Updated: 30 October 2018, 14:30
Terry - who isn't on social media - sent a letter to the Great British Bake Off producers ahead of the Channel 4 final as he reminisces on his emotional year.
As Great British Bake Off fans prepare for tonight's finale, former contestant Terry Hartill has thanked viewers for the support after the death of his wife.
His letter was then shared by the show's official Twitter account.
He wrote: "I would like to express a massive thank you to everybody who has supported me and my family over the last few months.
"We are so overwhelmed by the huge response we have received and I am particularly grateful for all your kind words online and on social media."
On the day of the #GBBOFinal, it's time to share a letter we’ve recently received from lovely Terry. He's not on social media, but wanted to say thanks for all your kindness and encouragement... pic.twitter.com/UXdQbP6d1I
— British Bake Off (@BritishBakeOff) October 30, 2018
Terry added: "It has been a difficult time since the loss of my wife and when my daughter applied for the show on my behalf we never could have expected the wonderful reaction that we have experienced and continue to receive.
"In the tent it was tough and difficult at times (a melting Eiffel Tower for example). I thank you all for seeing the vision! But it has been so very enjoyable and I have made some wonderful lifelong friends.
"I am very excited for the future and again would like to say a huge thank you to everyone for their love and encouragement. Yours, Terry."
Good luck to all the bakers tonight in the @BritishBakeOff FINAL.
— Prue Leith (@PrueLeith) October 30, 2018
All fantastic bakers and worthy winners. That is all I am going to say....for now!!! 😉
Tonight's final will see either Ruby Bhogal, Rahul Mandal, or Kim-Joy crowned victorious.
After spoiling last year's result hours before the embargo, judge Prue Leith has joked that the same won't happen again.
She has tweeted: "Good luck to all the bakers tonight in the @BritishBakeOff FINAL. All fantastic bakers and worthy winners. That is all I am going to say... for now!!"