There had been rumours of Chris Evans stepping down from Top Gear the last few weeks, following the dwindling viewership, with last night's finale marking the lowest of the entire series. No doubt the host's recent sexual assault allegations haven't done him any favours either.

As of this afternoon, Evans announced via Twitter that he would be leaving the series;

No word yet on Matt LeBlanc's status, but given that he is a much more recognisable face to worldwide users, he could easily helm the show himself. The former Friends star had also reportedly said that he wouldn't continue on the series if Evans did, while it was said the other presenters had a similar view.

BBC posted an official statement on their website stating: "Chris is stepping down from his duties on Top Gear. He says he gave it his best shot doing everything he could to make the show a success.

"He firmly believes that the right people remain, on both the production team and presenting team to take the show forward and make it the hit we want it to be. The new series has so far notched up over 30m views in the UK alone and has already been sold to 130 territories worldwide."

Evans added: "I have never worked with a more committed and driven team than the team I have worked with over the last twelve months. I feel like my standing aside is the single best thing I can now do to help the cause.

"I remain a huge fan of the show, always have been, always will be. I will continue to focus on my radio show and the allied events that it encompasses."

Somewhere Jeremy Clarkson is having a good old belly laugh about this whole mess.