Matt Dawson, 49, admitted that he’s “gutted” to leave A Question of Sport, after 18 years on the panel. The former rugby union star, along with co-stars Sue Barker and Phil Tufnell, all announced they would be stepping down from their roles, leaving the BBC programme to line-up a whole new panel of presenters.
But it’s clear they will be sorely missed, as the original trio were given an “incredible” send off as they appeared at a live version of the quiz show in Birmingham.
Matt told the audience: “So that is that. Sue, Matt and Phil Tufnell are no more. We’re gutted but thems the breaks.
“It was emotional but fun to the very last question.”
He added: “In true Question of Sport style we laughed to the very end.
READ MORE: Sue Barker heartbreak after revealing Question of Sport bond
“New personnel, bigger ratings. Love you,” he added cheekily alongside a kissing emoji.
Since Jeremy and his co-stars Richard Hammond and James May departed the BBC motoring show back in 2015, there has been suggestions of animosity between Jezza and whoever was presenting the show at the time.
Many, including Jeremy, have boycotted the series since he was fired, following a violent altercation with a member of staff over a hot meal.
After Chris Evans and Matt Le Blanc stood down from their roles, it was announced in 2018 that Paddy, Chris Harris and Freddie Flintoff would be the new hosts of the car programme.
A Question of Sport has also suffered in the ratings since Sue, Phil and Matt were purged from the series.
But it seemed viewers of both programmes were rallied against Paddy.
Cocoajaff responded: “No disrespect pal, but no one believes Top Gear is any better under your boys compared to Clarkson and co. Miles off in fact.”
Robftaylor admitted: “Sorry to say this – but seriously the new Top Gear and Question of Sport are just pants.”
BigKane77 blasted: “Top Gear has never been the same since the Clarkson, Hammond and May days. I’ve noticed several times that the new show has just repeated features from old shows but with newer vehicles obviously! As for QOS. I can’t watch it anymore… Got to agree with Clarkson on that one!”
While Robmillsmma reasoned: “Brutal.. but fair. The old guard of Top Gear was like bad panto in the end. I actually look forward to it again now. The Grand Tour is well… er… but Clarkson’s Farm is however of the best things I’ve seen in years! Love you both though… Lol.”