Davie regrets Strictly claims but insists show must go on

Tim Davie has apologised over the alleged mistreatment of contestants on Strictly Come Dancing as the corporation announced its annual report.

- RACHEL HAGAN

The BBC is facing its biggest controversy in 20 years as a slew of allegations about bullying and violence have surfaced against two of the show's top dancers. Graziano Di Prima quit the show earlier this month after a video of him kicking his former dance partner Zara McDermott was shown to BBC executives.

Responding to criticism of the show in recent days, the BBC director general said: "I'm very sorry that anyone has had an experience on Strictly that hasn't been wholly positive, I think that is something we do reflect on, and I'm sorry about that."

Mr Davie also apologised to those affected at a news briefing following the release of the annual report, which reveals, among other things, the salaries of its highest-paid stars. The figures were overshadowed by a series of allegations by past Strictly contestants over the robustness of its safeguarding procedures.

The corporation also announced it will make a net reduction of 500 full-time roles over the next two years.