BBC in University Challenge probe

Corpus Christi finally beat Manchester University by 275 points to 190

The BBC says it is taking seriously claims that a member of University Challenge's winning team was not eligible to take part.

Corpus Christi College, Oxford, led by Gail Trimble, romped to victory over Manchester University on the BBC TV quiz last week.

But the BBC are looking at claims Sam Kay, who told viewers he was studying chemistry, graduated in June last year.

The rules state that contestants must be a current student.

Mr Kay reportedly left Corpus Christi after failing to get funding for his PhD and is now working as an accountant.

'Human Google'

In a statement, the BBC said: "We understand the allegations made and are taking the issue seriously.

"However we need time to investigate fully, so we will do so and report our findings early next week."

Ms Trimble, 26, was dubbed the "human Google" after Corpus Christi's victory in the quiz chaired by Jeremy Paxman.

Much of the college's success has been down to Ms Trimble, who scored two-thirds of her team's 1,200 points before the final.

The team beat Manchester University by 275 points to 190.

It was the second time that the Oxford college had won the competition, having also taken the title in 2005.

Founded in the early 16th Century, it is one of Oxford's smaller colleges, with fewer than 400 students.