TV newsman Jeremy Paxman has instilled fear in many a politician on his BBC programme Newsnight.

But as far as Bolton student Jenny Ryan is concerned, his stern manner is just a front.

Having come face-to-face with the king of political interviews on his other show, University Challenge, she has nothing but praise for the hard taskmaster.

After helping her Leeds University team into the third round of the TV quiz show, the 20-year-old said: "He's a really great person to talk to. If you have the guts to approach him then you find he's a very nice man and that he puts on a front for his show."

Jenny's team saw off rivals Nottingham by 175 to 170 -- edging them closer to the final.

Law student Jenny, who wants to become a barrister or go into politics, was chosen for the final four following a series of gruelling auditions at Leeds Students' Union.

The former Thornleigh Salesian College pupil, of Bottom o' th' Moor, Horwich, never dreamed she would be chosen for a place on her university's team.

She has been busy swotting to help her team -- including Steve Kidd, Adam Tumber and captain James Webb -- get as far as possible in the competition.

Buoyed by her current success she is also trying her hand at other quiz shows -- grabbing a place on Channel 4's Fifteen to One.

She said: "I'm having a great time. I've always liked quizzes and I feel I'm on a bit of a roll."