A communications director from Oxfordshire is the oldest contestant in the hit television series Big Brother.

Stuart Hoskins, 36, joined nine other people in a London house on Friday. They will live together without access to the outside world, while millions of viewers watch their every move.

Stuart HoskinsFather-of-three Mr Hoskins, recently moved into a cottage in Murcott, near Bicester, with his wife Sian and their family.

He has already proved himself as a leader on the Channel Four programme and the show's psychologists noted how the avid golf fan led the team in discussion about their first task.

Only four per cent of viewers have so far voted for him as their favourite person in the household, making him second to last in the popularity stakes. Meanwhile, Mrs Hoskins has been trying to avoid media attention ever since her husband found celebrity status.

A decorator at the family home, who would not be named, said: "I think she's getting fed up with it all."

**If any readers know Mr Hoskins, they can contact Victoria Owen on 01865 425426 or e-mail vowen@nqo.com