The parents of Big brother housemate Liam McGough have told The Sun newspaper that they think their son won £100,000 on Wednesday night because he smokes.

Joe McGough said: “It’s brilliant. I think he was given the money because he is a popular lad and hasn’t offended anyone. The three who were making the decision have all had run-ins with one person or another but Liam hasn’t had an argument with anyone.

“To be honest I think the reason for that is that he has been too busy outside smoking — I think the fags might have won him his money.

“He’s a great lad and, in our eyes, certainly deserves it.”