The BBC is facing yet another storm of controversy after highly paid presenters Russell Brand and Jonathan Ross ganged up to prank call Andrew Sachs, the Fawlty Towers legend.

The pair suggested in lewd terms that Brand had enjoyed a sexual relationship with the 23-year-old granddaughter of Sachs, who played Manuel in the classic sitcom.

A recording of the abusive telephone message was broadcast on BBC Radio 2, prompting claims that the BBC has lost control of its editorial integrity.