The executive producer of Top Gear has quit the motoring show in the wake of Jeremy Clarkson’s departure.

The BBC tonight confirmed Andy Wilman had left the long-running series, but would not say whether or not the decision was related to the outspoken presenter.

Clarkson was suspended by the BBC last month during an internal investigation after he attacked Top Gear producer Oisin Tymon, splitting his lip and verbally abusing him.

Clarkson’s contract was not renewed, with director-general Tony Hall saying “a line has been crossed” and “there cannot be one rule for one and one rule for another”.

Jeremy Clarkson
Jeremy Clarkson was axed after the fracas with a producer (Anthony Devlin/PA)

But the broadcasting veteran received widespread public support, including from friend David Cameron.

Wilman’s departure came after the agent of Clarkson’s former co-presenter James May said he was still in talks with the broadcaster despite earlier reports that he had ruled out a return to the show without Clarkson.