KEEPING a mean eye on proceedings at Monk Bar Models, York, on Saturday, was James Bond villain Jaws.

For visitors to the York shop, a Corgi collector centre, had plenty to get their teeth into - thanks to a visit from Jaws look-alike Gary Tiplady.

He was on hand to promote the classic range of Corgi cars, including Bond models, at the Goodramgate shop.

Gary, from Newcastle, has travelled the world impersonating Bond actor Richard Kiel.

Like Richard, he suffers from acromegaly - a condition which causes the pituitary gland to produce too many hormones, resulting in excessive growth.

Gary, standing at 7ft 3in tall and weighing 26 stone, has even had his Jaws teeth custom-designed by makers of the Bond films. And he has found his similarity to the classic character has won him a number of film roles, including a part in Nick Moran's up-coming crime caper, Baby Juice Express.

Gary said: "I appeared in York to promote Corgi models, including the Bond range.

"Looking like Richard Kiel has taken me all over the world and the similarity has got me a lot of work. But now I am getting roles in my own right.

"I have just finished playing a lead in a major French film and I am going to be starring in Nick Moran's film. I am even going on Ready Steady Cook!

"People are always talking about Jaws and I had a set of teeth custom-designed by the Bond film makers. They are solid platinum and are insured for £4,000."

John Masheder, of Monk Bar Models, whose son, Andy, also works in the shop, said: "This event was a real draw for customers."

Updated: 10:06 Monday, October 08, 2001