Clarkson axed by BBC

Police have asked the BBC for its report on the Jeremy Clarkson incident that happened at a hotel in Yorkshire and say action will be taken “where necessary”. It followed the BBC’s announcement that the Top Gear presenter’s contract will not be renewed after he was involved in what the broadcaster describes as a “fracas” with producer Oisin Tymon. Director general Tony Hall says the decision has been taken with “great regret” and “it is not one I have taken lightly”. Hall says he met and spoke to both men, and will publish the findings of the BBC's internal investigation adding he took “no pleasure” in doing so. The investigation found Tymon was “subject to an unprovoked physical and verbal attack by Clarkson” and took himself to hospital after being left with a split lip. The incident lasted about 30 seconds and only stopped when a witness intervened. North Yorkshire Police say it “is liaising with the BBC regarding the alleged incident in North Yorkshire involving Clarkson”. It adds: “We have asked the BBC for the report that details the findings of its internal investigation. The information will be assessed and action will be taken by police where necessary.” Speaking after the decision was announced, Tymon says: “I’ve worked on Top Gear for almost a decade. Over that time Jeremy and I had a positive and successful working relationship, making some landmark projects together. He’s a unique talent and I’m well-aware many will be sorry his involvement in the show should end in this way.” Despite the departure of the show’s main star, the BBC intends to continue making the programme, which is one of the public broadcaster’s most valuable properties. Top Gear is sold to more than 170 countries and generates about NZ$97 million a year. It is believed BBC executives are keen to replace Clarkson with breakfast radio host and car enthusiast Chris Evans.