CHRIS Evans has admitted the 16-year age gap was to blame for the breakdown of his marriage to Swindon star Billie Piper.

Piper, who attended Bradon Forest School, in Purton, was just 18 when she started seeing the TV and radio star.

They married in Las Vegas in 2001 but split last year as Piper's career took off with a role in the new series of Dr Who.

"Our lives changed," Evans told the Radio Times.

"She got her career back on track. It was evident we weren't the same people and, although splitting up hurt, it was the best thing we ever did, apart from marrying in the first place.

"She was too young for me only 18 when we met but it was a real adventure."