BBC pulls New Tricks 'under-age sex ring' episode after Jimmy Savile allegations

Tonight's episode of New Tricks will be replaced with next week's in light of Savile allegations (BBC)

The BBC will not screen an episode of prime-time drama New Tricks this evening in light of the Jimmy Savile allegations.

The programme due to be broadcast at 9pm was about a paedophile ring operating in a children's care home.

"In light of current news events, this week's billed episode of New Tricks will be replaced by next week's episode," a BBC spokeswoman said.

The drama stars Alun Armstrong and Dennis Waterman as police officers brought out of retirement to investigate unsolved crimes.

Last week the BBC scrapped a documentary exposing the abuse and sexual exploitation of under-age models heightened sensitivities over the Jimmy Savile affair.

Last month the BBC postponed an episode of Good Cop in response to the deaths of police officers Fiona Bone and Nicola Hughes.