Internet star in University Challenge win

Alexander Guttenplan praised Paxman's "good humour" after captaining Emmanuel College, Cambridge, to a win over St John's College, Oxford, in the 2010 competition final.

The 19-year-old, who lives in north west London, and studies natural sciences, became an internet star after an exchange with Paxman in an earlier round.

The presenter said "good guess" after Mr Guttenplan correctly answered a question about poet WH Auden. The student replied: "It wasn't a guess."

Mr Guttenplan was hailed a "legend" on social networking sites following the broadcast. "Thanks to everyone who supported us – and to Mr Paxman for his good humour, on and off the set," said Mr Guttenplan last night.