My word! Scrabble champion in the pink

Mikki Nicholson, 32, right, from Cumbria, who said he has been diagnosed by a psychologist as a woman trapped in a man's body, appeared for the final with lipstick, manicured nails and a hint of stubble.

His pink plastic dress was trimmed with black lace.

Mr Nicholson, who has not undergone any surgery for his condition, began playing Scrabble on the internet just five years ago.

An 86-point word "obeisant", meaning respect, proved crucial in the deciding fifth game, picking up an extra 50 points for using all the letters.

Mr Nicholson, who is unemployed, was up against four-time champion Mark Nyman, a wordsmith who has spent time in Dictionary Corner on Channel 4's Countdown.

Mr Nyman, 44, has over 30 years playing experience and has won more than 20 major tournaments including the world championship.