The BBC had denied reports that 'Top Gear' has been axed.

The BBC has denied reports that 'Top Gear' has been axed

The BBC has denied reports that 'Top Gear' has been axed

It had been reported that production staff on the motoring show had been told by the corporation to look for other work after the horrifying crash that almost killed presenter Andrew 'Freddie' Flintoff at the programme's Dunsfold Aerodrome test track last year.

The future of 'Top Gear' was left in doubt after the incident although the BBC have rejected claims that the programme has been axed after 46 years.

A spokesperson said: "A decision on the timing of future 'Top Gear' shows will be made in due course with BBC Content."

Former England cricketer Flintoff, 45, suffered facial injuries and broken ribs after his crash last December and a source suggested that the BBC felt it would be in "bad taste" to continue making the show - which is also hosted by Paddy McGuinness and Chris Harris.

An insider told The Sun newspaper: "'Top Gear' has been an institution on British telly but the feeling is there is no way it can continue after Freddie's crash.

"The BBC are aware they very nearly lost a presenter's life while filming a segment, and there's a feeling it would be in bad taste to continue making such dangerous material.

"It's a tough decision but they know deep down it's the right one as hardcore fans of the show won't want to see a lightweight version."

'Top Gear' first aired on the BBC in 1977 but became a global success when Jeremy Clarkson and producer Andy Wilman revived the programme in 2002.

Clarkson - along with co-hosts Richard Hammond and James May - left the show following a fracas with a producer in 2015, with the current presenting trio formed four years later.

Tagged in