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PHIL TUFNELL CROWNED KING OF THE JUNGLE


May 12, 2003
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Former cricketer Phil Tufnell has emerged victorious in the creepy-crawly jungle challenge that was I'm A Celebrity – Get Me Out Of Here! The 37-year-old won a viewers' vote to overcome the final two contenders, TV presenter Linda Barker and footballer John Fashanu.

The series placed 10 B-list celebrities in a jungle camp in Queensland, Australia. Each contestant had to perform tasks – generally of a rather sickening nature – for their food. Phil finally won the competition after eating a selection of live creepy crawlies.

"I can't believe it – it's just unbelievable," he said after being declared winner. "I only turned up for a bit of a kip for two weeks." He doesn't receive any reward for his triumph, save for a boost to his profile and the chance to raise some money for charity.

"It has been difficult at times," he admitted, "but I have had a great time. I'm sorry to see the little jungle go, I've got quite attached to it."

Despite being unsuitable for squeamish viewers, the series drew audiences of up to 10 million and some 2.5 million voted on Monday alone. The phenomenal success of the show has already resulted in it being exported to the United States.

Photo: © Alphapress.com
Though he was clearly delighted to be reunited with girlfriend Dawn, Phil said he was "going to miss the little jungle"y
Photo: © Alphapress.com
Phil receives congratulations from fellow-contenders John Fashanu and Linda Barker after being declared triumphant

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