BBC apologises for showing episode of The Tweenies where character dresses as Jimmy Savile

Episode filmed in 2001 was broadcast again on CBeebies this morning

Jimmy Savile (PA)

The BBC issued an apology to viewers after a character in the popular children’s show The Tweenies appeared dressed as Jimmy Savile.

The episode, which was filmed in 2001 and was broadcast again on CBeebies this morning, showed the character of Max dressed as the disgraced late presenter in a blond wig and oversized chain necklace. The beloved Tweenie also spouted Savile catchphrase “Now then, guys and gals” during the offending scene, which sees him hosting a fictional music chart show.

DJ and TV presenter Jimmy Savile, who died in 2011 aged 84, is accused of “grooming a nation” and abusing hundreds of children during his 60-year career.

The Tweenies was cancelled in 2003 but remains a children’s favourite, which is regularly replayed on CBeebies, the BBC channel aimed at 4 to 6 year olds.

Ofcom received complaints while parents took to Twitter to express their shock. Ruth Ellis tweeted “Not sure the Jimmy Savile themed Tweenies episode on at the moment is entirely appropriate... @CBeebiesHQ”.

The BBC said: “This morning CBeebies broadcast a repeat of an episode of the Tweenies, originally made in 2001, featuring a character dressed as a DJ impersonating Jimmy Savile.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.”