TV presenter Jeremy Clarkson has often attracted controversy but the motoring enthusiast has also done a lot of good work for charity over the years, supporting causes across Oxfordshire.

His love of cars - he co-presented the BBC TV show Top Gear and then The Grand Tour - has won him many friends, and also critics in the environmental lobby.

Oxford Mail:

In the autumn of 2005, Oxford Brookes University awarded him an honorary degree for his passion for engineering.

READ MORE: Lady in Corsa drives into barber's shop

Green Party campaigners protested against Mr Clarkson's award because they believed his views were a threat to the environment.

One protester threw a custard pie in Mr Clarkson's face, who said he said he was "thrilled and honoured" to receive the degree before being struck.

Oxford Mail:

As the presenter wiped away the remains of the pie, he said "Good shot!"

Before the incident, Mr Clarkson admitted he had a "blatant disregard for the environment" but said the Green Party had a right to protest.

Oxford Mail:

Jeremy Clarkson with Alex James and David Cameron in Kingham

As our pictures show the presenter who lives near Chipping Norton has also backed many good causes over the years, including Helen & Douglas House and Chipping Norton lido.

Oxford Mail:

Sister Frances Dominica with Jeremy Clarkson

He now runs Diddly Squat farm shop just off Chipping Norton Road near Chadlington, in West Oxfordshire.

Oxford Mail:

Jeremy Clarkson with customers at his Diddly squat farm shop

In 2020 we were excited to launch We Grew Up in Oxford, a new online community for everyone who loves our great city. In our Facebook group, we have been delving into the archives - both recent and older - to bring you memories of what it was like growing up and living here through the years.

Oxford Mail:

Jeremy Clarkson signs a book for fan Pat Dunn

We hope you’ll join us and get involved in the project, and remember to let us know what memories from your glory days you want to see in the group. We Grew Up in Oxford, so now it’s time to celebrate that. See you there!

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About the author 

Andy is the Trade and Tourism reporter for the Oxford Mail and you can sign up to his newsletters for free here. 

He joined the team more than 20 years ago and he covers community news across Oxfordshire.

His Trade and Tourism newsletter is released every Saturday morning. 

You can also read his weekly Traffic and Transport newsletter.