The best kept secret in showbusiness has been unveiled – the identity of Top Gear's 'Stig' has been revealed to be racing driver and film stuntman Ben Collins.
The Stig has been the subject of countless rumours since he first appeared on the show seven years ago, but his identity has now been made public after the BBC lost a court case to keep the mystery alive.
Bristol-based Collins, 35, appeared at the High Court to battle the BBC's application for an injunction banning publication of his autobiography detailing his time as The Stig.
The BBC had claimed Collins was bound by a confidentiality clause. A statement added, “We brought this action as we believe it is vital to protect the character of The Stig.”
His publisher HarperCollins said, “This is a victory for freedom of speech. He has a great story to tell.”
Collins took over as The Stig in 2003. He has also appeared as a stunt double in Bond movie Quantum of Solace and also in National Treasure 2. Collins is also an accomplished racing driver. His autobiography, The Man in the White Suit, is due to be published on 16 September.
Trade My Motor, the hassle free way to sell your car.
Top Locations: Trade My Motor Bristol Trade My Motor Burton on Trent Trade My Motor Kettering Trade My Motor Leeds Trade My Motor Manchester Trade My Motor Manchester East Trade My Motor South West London
Top Makes: Audi BMW Ford Land-Rover Mercedes Renault Rolls-Royce Toyota Vauxhall Volkswagen
Top Models: 1-Series 3-Series 5-Series A-Class A3 A4 A5 Astra Auris Aygo