David Walliams 'absolutely appalled' by reports of groping at Presidents Club men-only gala he hosted

'I was there in a strictly professional capacity and not as a guest'

(Getty)

Comedian and TV personality David Williams has responded to the furore surrounding the Presidents Club annual charity fundraising dinner he hosted on Thursday 18 January, insisting he "did not witness any of the kind of behaviour" alleged.

His Twitter statement follows an exposé from an undercover Financial Times reporter detailing alleged groping at the event where the only women in the room were hostesses.

"Last Thursday night I hosted the Presidents Club annual charity fundraiser," Walliams tweeted. "I agreed to host as it is one of the biggest charity fund raising events of the year. I was there in a strictly professional capacity and not as a guest."

He continued: "I left immediately after I had finished my presenting on stage at 11.30pm. I did not witness any of the kind of behaviour that allegedly occurred and am absolutely appalled by the reports."

Journalist Madison Marriage said she was groped "several times" by men in attendance along with "numerous other hostesses".

The Presidents Club, which is comprised of leading businessmen, said it was "appalled" and "deeply concerned" by the allegations.

David Meller, who helped organise the event, has since quit the Department of Education board, MPs were told in the House of Commons.