The Cube is a winner for gameshow addict Dean

Dean Chase, from Great Clacton, was a contestant on the very first programme of the ITV show, presented by Philip Schofield.

He won the five-figure sum by completing tasks, including catching a ball, picking up items and counting dots inside a giant perspex cube.

If the 38-year-old taxi driver had failed any of the tasks he stood to lose everything, so the pressure was on, with the studio audience peering in and Mr Chase racing against the clock.

He said: “I have never been so nervous in my entire life.

“I have done lots of different stuff, but when you are standing in a glass cube, with 2,000 people outside, and you have to do these stupid things, suddenly these stupid things feel extremely difficult.

“You are taking a gamble every step of the way.”

However, despite the stress, he admitted: “It was exceptional fun.

“My mum and dad were there and I knew I was going to be on the telly, so I really had to enjoy it.”

He was delighted to walk away with £20,000, although under other circumstances, he could have won as much as £250,000.

Mr Chase added most of his winnings had already been spent on treats for friends and relations, including a new telescope, a horse for his wife, and a holiday in Spain for his parents.

The Cube was the sixth TV game show appearance for Mr Chase, of Puffinsdale, Great Clacton.

He has also competed in episodes of Total Wipeout, Are You Smarter Than a Ten Year Old? and Who Dares Sings.

However, he still has his sights set on other TV challenges, including Who Wants to be a Millionaire?, Deal or No Deal and In It To Win It.

He said the Cube had given him his biggest win to date, but Total Wipeout was the most fun.

Contestants on his edition of Total Wipeout got on so well, they are having a reunion at Butlins this November.

He admitted: “I’m a bit of a game show addict.

“I would advise anyone to have a go.

“You get a good chance of winning some money and you get to meet some brilliant people and do some brilliant things.”