Scott Mills was investigated over "serious sexual offences against a teenage boy" back in 2016 - a probe that led to his dismissal from BBC Radio 2. A Metropolitan Police spokesperson told The Mirror: "In December 2016, the Met began an investigation following a referral from another police force. The investigation related to allegations of serious sexual offences against a teenage boy. These were reported to have taken place between 1997 and 2000.

"As part of these enquiries, a man who was in his 40s at the time of the interview was questioned by police under caution in July 2018. A full file of evidence was submitted to the Crown Prosecution Service, which determined the evidential threshold had not been met to bring charges. Following this advice, the investigation was closed in May 2019."

It is not known whether the BBC was informed about the investigation at the time. Mills, 53, was abruptly pulled off air last week and replaced by Gary Davies after allegations were made over his "personal conduct".

A source told the publication that the BBC acted "quickly and decisively" after the complaint was lodged. The BBC "urgently assessed the information" before terminating Mills' contract over the weekend - just over one year after he took over the breakfast slot from Zoe Ball.

Lorna Clarke, the BBC's Director of Music, shared news of Mills' departure in an email, which reportedly sparked "audible gasps" in the newsroom.

She said: "I wanted to personally let you know that Scott Mills has left the Breakfast show, and the BBC. I know that this news will be sudden and unexpected and therefore must come as a shock. Not least as so many of us have worked with Scott over a great many years, across a broad range of our programmes on R1, 5Live, R2 and TV. I felt it was important to share this news with you at the earliest opportunity."

Clarke added: "Of course, it will also come as a shock to our audience and loyal breakfast show listeners too. I will update everyone with more information on plans for the show when I'm able to. While I appreciate many of you will have questions, I hope you can understand that I am not going to be saying anything further now."

After news of his exit was made public, the BBC said in a statement: "While we do not comment on matters relating to individuals, we can confirm Scott Mills is no longer contracted to work with the BBC."

It is believed BBC bosses are having crisis talks about Mills' replacement, with a source telling the publication: "It's like a bomb has been dropped in the middle of the corporation... everything has been thrown up into the air."

Mills, who has worked for the BBC for more than 25 years, is yet to comment on his sudden axe.