Giant to leave Gladiators at end of current series

Gladiators star Jamie Bigg, known as Giant, has said he will leave the BBC show at the end of this series.

In a post on social media on Friday, he said being a Gladiator had been "one of the greatest honours" of his life.

The former professional bodybuilder and firefighter, from Ilkeston in Derbyshire, also said in the post that he had been "faced with a choice that didn't align with my values", adding his departure "wasn't a decision I made".

A Gladiators spokesperson said: "After three formidable series, Giant is leaving Gladiators. We'd like to thank him for everything he has contributed to the show and wish him well for the future."

Giant made history as one of the tallest professional bodybuilders, standing at a whopping 6ft 5in.

In his post he said: "To my Gladiator family. I want to tell you all that I won't be coming back for season 4 of the TV show."

He didn't go into the details of why he won't be returning but said. "Stepping into that arena, hearing the crowd, representing strength, resilience and being a role model... that's something I'll carry with me forever.

"I'm proud of everything I gave to the show and grateful for every single person who supported me along the way."

"This isn't the end. It's just the beginning. Stay strong. Stand tall," he added.