I was so poor I couldn’t afford Pot Noodle – now I own a £500k house and drive a £50k car says Apprentice’s Tim Campbell

THE Apprentice’s first ever winner has revealed how his hard graft transformed life on a “tight budget” to one full of luxury.

Londoner Tim Campbell, 45, has opened up on his humble roots prior to reality TV fame.

Tim won the first ever series of The Apprentice in 2005 and is now back as Lord Alan Sugar’s aide to step in on show shows for co-star Claude Littner.

Claude, who gave a health update after his e-bike accident, will only star in two episodes this season before handing the baton to Tim.

The businessman is in a prime position to offer the budding stars some advice.

Not only has he triumphed on the show and worked for Lord Sugar, the dad-of-two now works as a marketing director of a financial education business.

Opening up on his roots, Tim told thisismoney.co.uk of his home life growing up.

He said: “We didn’t have much money, there was a need to save to make sure we had enough to pay our bills.

“We knew we couldn’t afford trips out, or to shop at supermarkets that didn’t have discounted deals. Mum was prudent and frugal.”

He then added: “When I was a psychology student. I was the first person in my family to go to university and surviving on a tight budget was stressful.

“I didn’t want to put any pressure on Mum because I knew she didn’t have the money to help me. At one point, I couldn’t even afford a Pot Noodle.”

Now things are significantly healthier with his bank balance.

Following his hard work, he has been able to splash out on his lavish home.

Yet opening up on his other pricey purchases, he told the publication his biggest spend was: “A white Mercedes-AMG GLE, three years ago. It cost more than £50,000.

“I still have it and I love driving it.

“I’m also partial to nice watches which cost a few thousand pounds – and I love a well-made suit.”