BBC forced to apologise for off-screen F-word

Viewers heard a disembodied voice exclaim “What the f*** is that?” at the start of an item during the TV programme yesterday morning.

Presenter Susanna Reid was introducing conductor John Wilson as a guest on the show when the gaffe occurred.

The foul-mouthed outburst became a popular talking point online as users sent messages about the slip on Twitter.

The BBC said a microphone had been left on outside the studio which picked up the four-letter word.

A spokeswoman said: “During the programme this morning, we accidentally played out not-for-broadcast audio containing an audible swear word.

“Our presenters apologised on air as soon as the mistake was identified and we are reviewing our procedures accordingly.”

The show has previously had to apologise for broadcasting an uncensored tape of actor Christian Bale letting fly a torrent of abuse.