Shropshire-born BBC radio DJ Chris Hawkins put to the test on Mastermind

Chris Hawkins, who broadcasts on BBC Radio 2 and BBC 6 Music, will feature on the show hosted by John Humphrys on Saturday.

He went head-to-head with author and historian Kate Williams, who studied at Oxford University, has two MAs and is a Professor of history at the University of Reading.

Mr Hawkins, however, did not try to tackle Professor Williams on an academic subject – he tried to beat her by answering questions on his favourite subject, Coronation Street.

Mr Hawkins, who was born in Loppington, near Shrewsbury, and now lives at Wilmslow, in Cheshire, said it was one of the most nerve-wracking experiences of his life.

He said: "It was the hardest thing I've done since GCSE Maths – my anxiety levels before taking my seat in the famous black chair were through the roof.

"John Humphrys was exactly what you'd expect. He was forceful and powerful and unforgiving. It was very intimidating."

Mr Hawkins studied at Ellesmere College, in Ellesmere, before cutting his teeth at BBC Radio Shropshire and then completing a degree at the University of Nottingham and at Middlebury College in the USA. He was one of the founding BBC 6 Music DJs, having previously worked for Radio Shropshire, Radio Nottingham, the BBC World Service and GLR.

Mr Hawkins said: "I've been a fan of Coronation Street since I was five years old and have never stopped.

"I haven't missed an episode of Corrie for many years. If we're on holiday, I'll try to find it or use catch up when we're back. People can relate to the characters and their kitchen sink dramas."

In addition to Professor Willams, Mr Hawkins also went up against comedian Iain Stirling and BBC journalist Nikki Fox.