Formula One: Needell gets fans' vote to replace Walker

BBC Top Gear presenter Tiff Needell has been chosen by motorsport fans to succeed Murray Walker in the Formula 1 commentary box.

Walker is due to retire at the end of the 2001 season.

Needell came first in a poll conducted by Green Flag motoring assistance, sponsor of the British Formula 3 Championship, often the training ground for Formula 1.

Needell recorded 35% of the vote, followed by motorists' favourite pundit and ex-Top Gear presenter Jeremy Clarkson, who polled 14%.