Quentin Willson: Top Gear star dies age 68 as cause of death confirmed - what other TV shows did he present?
Motoring journalist and former Top Gear presenter Quentin Willson has died at the age of 68, his family has announced.
Willson was one of the original faces of Top Gear, helping shape the BBC show alongside Jeremy Clarkson before jumping ship to Fifth Gear.
From there, he went on to present programmes such as Britain’s Worst Drivers and The Cars the Star. He also holds the record for the lowest ever score on BBC’s Strictly Come Dancing, racking up just eight points for his Cha Cha Cha in 2004.
Willson, who was recently diagnosed with lung cancer, died surrounded by his family on Saturday, November 8.
In a statement, the Willson family said: “The family of Quentin Willson, television presenter and producer, motoring journalist, author, and campaigner, wish to announce that he passed away peacefully surrounded by his family on Saturday, November 8, following a short battle with lung cancer.
“Through his FairFuel campaign, Quentin saved UK consumers a fortune by helping to freeze fuel duty. Over £100bn in fresh taxation was prevented by the campaign, a real consumer win by a true consumer champion. Long before it was fashionable, he championed the GM EV1 and the promise of electric cars, proving he was always ahead of the curve.
“More recently he had worked tirelessly to make EVs affordable for all, via his FairCharge campaign.
Much-loved husband to Michaela, devoted father to Mercedes, Max and Mini, and cherished grandfather to Saskia, Xander & Roxana. Quentin will be deeply missed by his family, friends, and all who knew him personally and professionally.
“While messages of condolence are warmly appreciated, the family asks that their privacy be respected at this difficult time. Funeral arrangements will be announced in due course.
“The void he has left can never be filled. His knowledge was not just learned but lived; a library of experience now beyond our reach."