Top Gear host Jeremy Clarkson has been suspended amid allegations of a 'fracas' with a producer.

The outspoken presenter's show has also been pulled on Sunday as an investigation gets under way into the claims.

Clarkson, who has been involved in a string of rows in recent years, had been on a final warning following earlier allegations he used a racist word.

In a statement, the corporation sai: "Following a fracas with a BBC producer Jeremy Clarkson has been suspended pending an investigation.

"No one else has been suspended. Top Gear will not be broadcast this Sunday. The BBC will be making no further comment at this time."

Top Gear is the world's most watched factual programme and makes millions for the BBC.

Clarkson was given a final warning over his behaviour on the programme amid allegations of racism and offensive comments on the programme.

An interview review was ordered by Danny Cohen, the BBC's director of television,

Clarkson, who hosts the show with James May and Richard Hammond was involved in a row over claims the presenters drove a Porsche with a number plate that was interpreted in some quarters as a reference to the Falklands War, on a trip to Argentina for the Christmas special.

The programme has also suffered a drop in ratings.