Big Brother to spring surprise eviction

Big Brother will spring an unexpected eviction on the remaining housemates tonight as the programme nears its nailbiting conclusion.

Air steward Brian Dowling is favourite to land the ultimate prize after winning over millions of fans.

They will be whittled down from four to three with just a day to go before the identity of the £70,000 winner is revealed live on Channel 4.

Viewers and Big Brother devotees have been voting for who they want to win the prize and the person with least votes will get the boot tonight, leaving just three housemates in the house.

Friday night will see the winner and the two runners-up emerging from the house as the final public votes will have been cast.

They will enjoy a celebratory meal in the evening unaware that when they finish, one of them will be told to pack their bags.

Executive producer Conrad Green said: ‘‘This is a great twist to the show in the final week of Big Brother. It’s a decision that may be welcomed by the housemates, as all four seem keen to leave the house and get into the outside world.’’

Elizabeth Woodcock is tipped to be the first out.

The quartet have been left in the dark about how the numbers will be reduced and have been speculating over the past few days.

On Friday the least popular contestant will be ousted first and then the remaining pair will have an agonising wait to find out who has won.

Items from the house went under the hammer from yesterday with an Internet charity auction at eBay.co.uk over the next month.

Lots include a Philippe Starck-designed shower, Brian’s bed, a rug and spa bath. Other items include a pogo stick, fancy hats made by the housemates and the life-size group portrait painted by Brian, Dean, Helen, Elizabeth and Paul.