So the saying goes, life imitates art, and this can definitely be said for Paddy McGuinness' input on Top Gear tonight.

With Freddy Flintoff self-isolating, it was left to Paddy and co-host Chris Harris to test drive the best British cars for £2,000 on an Icelandic expedition.

First, they revealed the car Freddie had chosen - a sensible Range Rover boasting both power and comfort.

Next Chris revealed he had opted for a Vauxhall Chevette rally car. Not comfortable but built for taking on unpredictable terrains at speed at least.

Finally, in a scene which could have come straight from the cult classic sitcom, Phoenix Nights, Paddy revealed his choice - a Rolls Royce Silver Shadow.

In similar fashion to his fictional character in the comedy show, he seemed to have turned up with the most inappropriate tool for the job.

In lieu of club owner Brian Potter, it was left to Chris to be first flabbergasted before mocking the Lancashire comedian for turning up to a race in a "wedding car".

 

 

But it was Paddy who had the last laugh when his car took everything the volcanic landscape threw at it, ultimately returning home to be named the victor.

If you missed the episode and would like to see two grown men mistreating vintage cars, you can catch up with the episode on BBC iPlayer.

:: Top Gear continues next Sunday, December 5, at 8pm on BBC One.