Hit TV quiz Eggheads poaches Bolsover's Steve Cooke!

A TV quiz fanatic has really hit the jackpot '“ after becoming an Egghead on the hit show.
Bolsover's TV Egghead Stephen Cooke. Picture: Jason Cahdwick.Bolsover's TV Egghead Stephen Cooke. Picture: Jason Cahdwick.
Bolsover's TV Egghead Stephen Cooke. Picture: Jason Cahdwick.

Stephen Cooke, of Bolsover, landed the long-term role after beating off fierce competition to win the Make Me an Egghead spin-off series.

The 47-year-old, who made his debut on Eggheads last week, is one of nine gameshow champions to be challenged daily by a new quiz team on the popular BBC programme.

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Dad-of-two Stephen, who scooped almost £13,000 in prize money after winning ITV’s The People Versus competition in 2001, said: “It all doesn’t seem real – I’m still pinching myself.

“I’m a big fan of Eggheads so this really is a dream come true.

“I’ve packed in my job at Betterware for this brilliant gig.

“I’m now a professional quizzer for the next two years and I couldn’t be happier – it’s a life-changer.”

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Mensa member Stephen, who expects to make ‘a nice little earner’ on the show, is also enjoying a taste of fame.

“I was crossing the road the other day and a woman turned round to me and said, ‘I recognise you – you’re that chap off Eggheads!’ I didn’t know what to say.”

Stephen added: “I’m pleased to be helping put this part of Derbyshire on the map and I’d like to thank everyone for their kind words and suport.”

Eggheads, which is presented by journalist Jeremy Vine, is one of the longest running and most popular teatime TV quizzes. It airs on BBC Two every day at 6pm.