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."

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"There's a reason that a lot of people don't like Christianity, because they perceive it as bigoted, outdated and homophobic – and people like you propagate that, and that breaks my heart."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