Ben Collins defends The Stig reveal move

Racing driver Ben Collins has claimed that his anonymity as Top Gear's The Stig had been "eroded so much" that he had to leave the show.

The 35-year-old left his position on the motoring programme after winning a legal battle to publish his autobiography, in which he disclosed the closely-guarded mystery of The Stig's identity.

When he informed managers about his plans for the book, Collins claims he was "threatened" that publishing it could result in him losing his job.

Speaking to The Sun, he said: "Across the motoring world many people already knew who I was. But coming without warning, this was a snowball that couldn't stop rolling."

Collins said that his anonymity as The Stig had been "eroded so much" in the press that it was time for him to go.

He also said that he feared about being replaced on the show, after producers suggested a one-off replacement Stig for an event last year that Collins "didn't want to miss".

When asked about his advice for the next person to play The Stig, Collins said: "Watch what happened to me and make your own choices!"

After leaving the show and publishing his book, the racing driver now plans to compete in the prestigious Le Mans 24 Hour race.

Collins also expressed his hope that the acrimony on Top Gear will ease over time and he can resume friendships with people on the show.

In a statement, a BBC spokeswoman said: "Today's interview appears in a newspaper that is owned by the same company that is publishing Ben's book.

"It seems to have been designed simply to attempt to generate further sales. The BBC categorically refutes any accusations of bullying.

"Once Ben informed the BBC of his intentions, he was reminded of his confidentiality obligations and it was made clear to him that if he went ahead with the book, he would not be able to remain in his role."

Earlier in the week, Top Gear co-host Jeremy Clarkson said that the hugely popular motoring programme is "damaged but not out" after The Stig's reveal.