BBC Breakfast forced to pull live segment over 'distressing' image

BBC Breakfast had to abruptly end a live feed from Stonehenge during their Summer Solstice coverage after showing an unexpected image.

Reporter Peter Ruddick was on scene interviewing revellers, as he told viewers: "For some this is a spiritual occasion. For others it's a party, or a rare chance to walk among history.

"For everyone, it's special. Special indeed, and I've been asking everyone, 'What are you going to do with that extra bit of sunshine?' Because as Naga said, today is the day-"

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His report was suddenly stopped, freezing the feed on a scene of a dog in a coat lying still on the grass, with Ruddick looking down at it visibly worried, reports the Express.

Back at the studio, presenters Charlie Stayt and Naga Munchetty quickly jumped in to reassure viewers. Charlie addressed the audience: "Okay, we should just explain - problems with the line there.

"The dog that Peter was looking at there is all well and good, just a little tired. We saw it breathing earlier on, because it was wrapped up to keep warm. That's all."

Naga added her reassurance: "In case people were worried!"

This incident takes place as BBC Breakfast boss Richard Frediani takes extended leave following claims of bullying. A source disclosed to The Sun: "It's been an incredibly challenging past few months for everyone involved with BBC Breakfast - from crew to on-screen talent."

"Fredi was already taking a break because obviously the allegations against him have been pretty damning, and he needed time to reflect. He's devastated by some of the claims and has also had a lot of behind the scenes support from colleagues, many of whom think he's a brilliant boss."

In a statement regarding Frediani, a BBC spokesperson shared: "While we do not comment on individual cases, we take all complaints about conduct at work extremely seriously and will not tolerate behaviour that is not in line with our values.

"We have robust processes in place and would encourage any staff with concerns to raise them directly with us so they can be addressed."

BBC Breakfast airs daily from 6am on BBC One and iPlayer