BBC radio presenter leaves job after calling a Christian 'homophobic' and 'bigoted'

A BBC radio presenter has left his job after labelling a Christian "homophobic" and a "bigot."

Lee said the Bible verses quoted by Trayhorn and endorsed by Powell were 'homophobic' and 'bigoted'BBC

Iain Lee, the host of BBC Three Counties Radio breakfast show, interviewed Libby Powell from Christian Concern to discuss the case of Rev Barry Trayhorn.

Trayhorn had received a warning for quoting allegedly homophobic verses during a prison service. Powell defended on air Trayhorn's right to quote the Bible but was lambasted for saying that homosexuality was a sin.

"What he's [Trayhorn] is preaching is hatred, and we don't like hate preachers if they're brown and they've got a god that comes from a different religion – we don't like hate preachers in any way," said Lee in the interview.

Lee asked Powell whether she "supported bigotry" – and later told her: "You've chosen not to question it [the Bible], because you're a bigot."

"There's a reason that a lot of people don't like Christianity, because they perceive it as bigoted, outdated and homophobic – and people like you propagate that, and that breaks my heart."

Lee apologised "for any offence caused" and a BBC spokesman confirmed he "would no longer be presenting his shows on the station" after Christian Concern encouraged its supporters to complain to the BBC.

The corporation issued a formal apology last week for the manner in which the interview was conducted.

"While the programme is well-known for its combative style, the BBC fully accepts that the language the presenter used," a statement read. "The tone in which he conducted these interviews, was at several points inappropriate.

"The BBC – and Iain Lee himself – wish to apologise for any offence that may have been caused."

The decision has caused outrage on social media with Iain Dale, a radio presenter for LBC joining a chorus of others labelling the BBC's decision a "disgrace."

He also received support from the CEO of PinkNews, Benjamin Cohen, and broadcaster Christian O'Connell.