A NORTH YORKSHIRE pensioner proved to be the strongest link - and more than a match for gameshow "dragon" Anne Robinson.

Jim Jones, 70, told today how he traded blows with the feared quiz show host during his winning performance on The Weakest Link.

The BBC show has taken the nation by storm because of Robinson's cruel treatment of contestants.

Jim, of Field Lane, Thorpe Willoughby, who used to be a member of MENSA, walked away with £2,070.

He said: "I tried to give Anne Robinson as much stick as she gave me. It was a bit nerve-racking, but I really enjoyed the day. We didn't get an opportunity to mingle with her - you just see her like she is on the TV."

During the quiz, Robinson asked Jim how he thought he had performed. He replied: "I'm not here to incriminate myself."

After his victory he told the cameras: "This will please three people: myself, my wife and my bank manager."

Jim's wife, Beryl, said: "I'm very proud. I loved the way he handled himself - he was so cool."

Jim said: "Anne didn't congratulate me after I won, but I didn't take it personally. I think she is a hard nut with a soft centre."

Updated: 12:36 Saturday, February 10, 2001