Tom Daley’s Game of Wool star fights back tears after being crowned first winner

The first winner of Tom Daley’s Game of Wool has been revealed after an emotional finale.

Just three knitters – Ailsa, Holger and Lydia – were left standing heading into the final round of Channel 4’s Game of Wool competition.

The show sees 10 ambitious take on a series of complex knitting challenges.

But, following on from his semi-final win, Holger took home the crown and was visibly emotional.

Fighting back tears, he spoke to the camera: ‘I am extremely happy. I was not expecting this. It feels very sweet but really the thing I take back from this is the community feel.

‘It sounds like a cliche but that’s what it really is. That’s the reality of it.’

Taking to social media, fans praised Holger’s achievement, agreeing that he was the best knitter on the show.,

@Explorer_Faye commented: ‘I’m glad Holger won #GameOfWool #BritainsBestKnitter he’s soo talented and clever, though the other contestants are too. A brilliant series, it’s been sooo interesting @Channel4.’

Meanwhile, @wasabibestie said: ‘I’m going to miss my emotional support show.’

However, it remains to be seen whether the show will return for a second series, having received mixed reviews throughout, as some thought it was too ‘underwhelming’ while @Stevie5667 claimed ‘there is no “Umph”.’

In an apparent reference to the barbaric and bloodthirsty Game of Thrones, Game of Wool was billed as being less stressful than The Great British Bake Off, despite its similarities.

Filmed in the picturesque countryside of rural Scotland, Tom, 30, presented the series, and was praised for his ‘brilliant’ hosting duties online.

The former diver’s love of knitting has been well-documented – and was even seen with his yarn and needles taking a prime poolside spot for the 2024 Paris Olympics.

In 2022, the diver released knitting and crochet pattern book Made with Love, featuring 30 projects from ‘gifts to chic homeware, cosy accessories and stylish wardrobe essentials’.

He took up the craft during the Covid-19 lockdown in March 2020 and has been an avid fan ever since.

Game of Wool is available to watch on Channel 4.

Got a story?

If you’ve got a celebrity story, video or pictures get in touch with the Metro.co.uk entertainment team by emailing us celebtips@metro.co.uk, calling 020 3615 2145 or by visiting our Submit Stuff page – we’d love to hear from you.