A student star of Channel 4's Countdown word quiz has failed in his bid to become the series champion. But Adam Gillard from Stanmore said he was delighted to have got so far.

The 21-year-old was one of only six contestants in the show's history to exceed 900 points and record at least 100 in each appearance when he first appeared in January. In the final, however, he could not match his opponent Edward McCullagh's score of 113.

"I played pretty well and can't have any complaints really. He was just too good on the day," he said. "Everything was done in a friendly spirit.

"I'm also pleased with the positive reaction from people who have seen me wearing my kippah," as he did in every episode.

As runner-up, he won £1,000 and a commemorative piece of glassware.

Mr Gillard - who is studying for a Master's in speech, language and cognition at UCL - can look forward to future appearances in "Champion of Champions" specials, where top-scoring contestants are invited back.