As a five times British champion jockey, he is one of the country’s racing legends, but Willie Carson has admitted that his street credibility will be even higher when he enters the jungle.

Smiling, the popular jockey – who during his distinguished career won 17 British classic races – revealed that his grandchildren are huge fans of the hit reality TV show and he hopes that they will be over the moon when they see him camp outside with his fellow celebrities.

Putting a smile on their faces is one of the main reasons he has agreed to take part and he said:

“The grandchildren are massive fans. The street cred is going to get lifted when they find out I am doing this! I know they will be excited. I have watched the show in the past, but not religiously. I am determined to really enjoy my experience in the jungle.”

 “I didn’t have time to do anything to prepare for the jungle, but I don’t mind. I don’t know what lies ahead and whether it will be the hardest thing I have ever done, but at the same time, I am not dreading anything either.”

He also revealed that he isn't as fit as people think and laughed: “I haven’t ridden a horse for 16 years. I am a pensioner!

"I don’t mind about the lack of food though. In fact, I don’t mind if I do lose some weight!”

While he doesn’t know if any of the trials will prove too much for him, Willie was adamant that he won’t be afraid to speak his mind if his fellow campers get on his nerves and promised: “If I get annoyed, I will say it"

Given he is one of Britain’s most successful jockeys, it comes as no surprise to learn that he also thinks he does have plenty of fighting spirit. “I am competitive,” he admitted.

“Would I like to win the show? Well I don’t know how far the course is yet! I have nothing to sell nor a career to re-resurrect. When I get back from the jungle, I will put my feet up and I shouldn’t think I will do anything or try to do anything else.

“It seems doing this was simply one of those offers I couldn’t turn down!”