Top Gear star Quentin Willson dies aged 68 after short battle with lung cancer
Tributes have been paid to the motoring journalist
Top Gear star Quentin Willson has died at the age of 68, his family have announced in a statement.
Quentin was one of Top Gear’s original stars and was the show’s used car expert for a decade from 1991. During his time on the programme, he worked alongside Jeremy Clarkson, Vicki Butler-Henderson and James May.
He later presented Channel 5‘s rival motoring show, Fifth Gear. He died following a short battle with lung cancer, it’s reported.
Death of Top Gear star Quentin Willson announced
In a statement, his family said: “A true national treasure, Quentin brought the joy of motoring, from combustion to electric, into our living rooms. He helped shape the original Top Gear as one of its first hosts, working alongside Jeremy Clarkson and the team who took the pioneering show global.
“He went on to front Fifth Gear and still holds the dubious honour of Strictly Come Dancing’s lowest score in history.”
The statement continued: “Through his FairFuel campaign, Quentin saved UK consumers a fortune by helping to freeze fuel duty. Over £100 billion in fresh taxation was prevented by the campaign, a real consumer win by a true consumer champion.
“He also created and presented much-loved programmes such as Britain’s Worst Drivers and The Cars the Star. 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.”
It concluded: “Much-loved husband to Michaela, devoted father to Mercedes, Max and Mini, and cherished grandfather to Saskia, Xander and 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.”
Tributes pour in
Twitter was awash with tributes as the news broke.
One fan said: “Just hearing about the sad death of Quentin Willson. Another motoring legend lost to cancer.” Another added: “Sad news to hear former Top Gear Presenter Quentin Wilson has passed away thoughts prayers and sincere condolences go out to his family and friends at this sad time.”
“Just read the news about Quentin Wilson. For those of us of a certain age he was Top Gear,” another posted. “Very sad and shocking news. Always a true gent. My thoughts with his family,” said another.
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