BBC sorry over Savile impersonation

The BBC has apologised after a character from the children's television show CBeebies appeared dressed as Jimmy Savile.

Max, the character, used the disgraced presenter's accent and catchphrases and wore one of Savile's trademark tracksuits topped off with a blond wig.

The episode featured Max presenting a Top Of The Pops-style programme and uttering the paedophile's catchphrase: "Now then, guys and gals."

The episode, which was filmed in 2001, was shown on the BBC before 9am on Sunday.

A corporation spokesman said: "This morning CBeebies broadcast a repeat of an episode of the Tweenies, originally made in 2001, featuring a character dressed as a DJ impersonating Jimmy Savile.

"This programme will not be repeated and we are very sorry for any offence caused."

Twitter users picked up on the gaffe.

Kenny Senior wrote: "Are BBC trying to self destruct? Max from Tweenies dressed as Jimmy Savile just now nearly chokes on my cornflakes."

A recent Metropolitan Police report into allegations of sexual abuse against Savile, who died in 2011 aged 84, concluded he was a "prolific, predatory sex offender" who abused more than 200 people over a 60-year period.