The motoring world is in mourning following the death of Quentin Willson, the celebrated journalist and original Top Gear presenter, at the age of 68.
A Peaceful Passing and Family Tribute
Willson's family confirmed he passed away peacefully, surrounded by his loved ones, on Saturday 8th November. His death followed a short battle with lung cancer.
In a moving statement, his family described him as a 'true national treasure' who brought the joy of motoring into living rooms across the country. He is survived by his wife, Michaela, his three children, Mercedes, Max and Mini, and his grandchildren.
Shaping Television and Championing Motorists
Willson was instrumental in shaping the iconic format of Top Gear, which he began hosting in 1991. He worked alongside Jeremy Clarkson and the team that would eventually take the pioneering show global, appearing weekly until the original format ended in 2001.
His television career was diverse, extending beyond Top Gear to include presenting Fifth Gear and creating popular shows like Britain's Worst Drivers and The Cars the Star. He also secured a place in television history by earning the lowest-ever score on Strictly Come Dancing in 2004.
Beyond the screen, Willson was a formidable consumer champion. Through his FairFuel campaign, he helped prevent over £100 billion in fresh fuel duty taxation, saving UK drivers a fortune. A forward-thinker, he was an early advocate for electric vehicles, championing the GM EV1 long before it was fashionable, and more recently campaigned for affordable EVs via his FairCharge initiative.
A Lasting Legacy in Motoring
Quentin Willson's influence extended to print, where he was a regular columnist for newspapers including the Sunday Mirror and authored ten books.
His family's statement poignantly captured the loss, stating: "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." They have asked for privacy during this difficult time and will announce funeral arrangements in due course.
