In Vinnys own words .....

There was also an incident during the European Championship filmed as part of the 2nd UK Extreme series which went a long way to helping me make this difficult decision [quitting the Razer team].

During our fight with Tornado we were immobile and had held on with the claw for far, far longer than the permitted one minute and should have been disqualified or counted out. We were then shockingly given a judges decision which was never ours, and both myself and Simon immediately wanted to hand it back to Tornado.

Ian, as team captain, refused and a long discussion was needed to resolve matters. When I pointed out that a democratic team vote would mean that we should hand the match back I was told by Ian You didnt build the machine so your vote doesnt count. After giving so much of my life to the team you can probably understand I was more than a little miffed at that comment! Also, the matter had nothing to do with machine construction as it was all down to our honour and integrity, and I believe I had as much a say in that as Ian and Simon.

Ian eventually relented the following morning, but refused to be part of the filming when we handed the match back to Tornado. I considered this to be a little hypocritical from someone who in previous series had stated to camera were an honorable team. It was also a clear indication of how much Ian hates losing. I gave him the benefit of the doubt for storming out after the Pussycat fight in Series 4, but this second show of what can only be described as petulance was too much for me. A seed of doubt had been planted in my mind and several months later it bore fruit in the shape of my decision to retire.

This may sound a little ungrateful to some but it is the truth of the matter, and inspite of this I will always be thankful for all the truly wonderful moments that Ian and Simon gave me the chance to experience. I would also like to take this opportunity to thank the other roboteers, the film crews and most importantly of all the multitude of fans that have given me such great memories during my time as a roboteer. I do miss you all!