BBC apology over Clarkson remarks

The BBC has apologised for a comment made by Top Gear host Jeremy Clarkson after he described a car as being "special needs".

Broadcasting watchdog Ofcom concluded that the presenter's remarks had the "potential to be very offensive". Mr Clarkson, one of the highest-paid figures at the BBC, made the remarks as he mocked a Ferrari owned by his co-host James May. He said the F430 Speciale "looked like a simpleton", adding that it should be renamed "Speciale Needs", as it looked "a bit wrong".

The intended joke was removed from the repeat of the show, as well as from the online iPlayer version.

The BBC apologised for any offence caused by the remark, adding it was not the intention to make fun at the expense of people with special educational needs.