Steve overtakes Grand Prix trolls

STEVE Jones was the target of abuse by internet trolls when he moved into sport presenting.

The telly hunk was hired to front coverage of Channel 4’s new Formula 1 show last year.

Steve, 40, said: “When I started doing it people were surprised to see someone like me. I got a bit of a backlash. There was abuse online. You have to develop a thick skin.

“They were saying, ‘What the hell does an entertainment presenter know about Formula 1?’, which is a fair question. But at the end of the season, it seemed like people had warmed to me.”

Steve is known for working on shows like Let’s Dance For Comic Relief and Sex Box.

But he’s determined to be taken more seriously.

He added: “I learned about the sport enough so I could be on screen talking about it. It’s been the highlight of my career to be able to present a live show about something I previously didn’t understand that well.

“When I was offered it I jumped at the chance because it was something completely different. And it was the best decision I’ve ever made. I now think of myself as a sports presenter.”

Channel 4 is now the UK home of free-to-air F1 coverage with live broadcasts of 10 Grand Prix this season. Steve presents highlights from the Australian Grand Prix from 2pm today. THIS year’s UK entry Lucie Jones is set to get some expert advice from former winner Conchita. Bosses of the London Eurovision Party have announced they will share the billing for next Sunday’s bash. Bearded lady Conchita won the contest for Austria in 2014 and became one of the most talked-about champions in show history. An event insider said: “This will be the perfect opportunity for Lucie to ask Conchita for tips on how to win votes on the night.” For details on the party, which is at London’s Café de Paris, visit londoneurovision.com