TV fame was celebrated by a Maybole pensioner for the second time when he was crowned champion on a cult quiz show.

Eddie Glass (67)  successfully applied to be a contestant on Channel 4 show Countdown and the key to being picked hinged on his previous TV appearance.

The retired grandfather of two explained: “Part of the reason I was picked was that I had previously been on TV in early 1983 in the Boys from Maybole, a documentary now on YouTube about myself and 12 other friends travelling on a bus to Spain to watch Scotland in the 1982 World Cup. The programme makers wanted me to talk about that on the show as they found it interesting.

"I applied because my neighbour Alex Menzies did it a few years back and I thought I would have a go.”

He enjoyed three days as champion before bowing out on the fourth day of the long-running show.

Former Maybole Town Hall caretaker and school janitor Eddie really enjoyed the experience.

He said: “I must say it’s easier playing the game on at home than it is in the studio. But everyone made me feel quite at ease. I made a few mistakes but it was great to be champion.

“The host Nick Hewer was quite funny and easy to talk to and Rachel Reilly and Suzie Dent were good to work with. I also met Gryff Rhys Jones, the comedian, who was the guest and had a chat. I used to enjoy him in Alas Smith and Jones.”

He was presented with a tea pot, mug and dictionary for his success and the experience was something to treasure.

“I travelled down to Manchester to film it with my wife Mary Ann and we were really well treated. This is something I will never forget,” added Eddie.

The champion meanwhile admits he enjoyed constant attention in the town while the show was on.

He added: “I was going along to buy my paper and people were asking me how I got on. But because it was recorded I was sworn to secrecy and had to tell them they would have to watch and wait and see. I really enjoy Countdown and have been watching it since it started.”