THE BBC has been forced to hit back after viewers branded its coverage of the LA wildfires a “waste of money”.
Presenter Clive Myrie – who joined the BBC 37 years ago – was seen reporting on the blazes live from Los Angeles earlier this month.
But viewers were left unimpressed as there were already correspondents in the area.
After being hit with complaints over the cost of another presenter reporting on the fires, the Beeb has responded.
A statement explained Clive, 60, was already in the US reporting on President Trump‘s inauguration.
It read: “The LA wildfires are an important story for audiences in the US, UK and around the world.
“Clive Myrie is in the US to front our inauguration coverage and was diverted to the fires to support the team on the ground who have been working tirelessly on this huge story, showing the devastating impact of the fires on people and the environment.”
The statement added: “While we don’t generally discuss programme budgets due to commercial sensitivities, we’re aware for the need to maintain value for money at all times with regards to the licence fee.
“We can assure you that all of our resources being used in our coverage of this story are being engaged efficiently.”
On January 7 ferocious wildfires erupted in Los Angeles and – due to powerful winds and dry conditions – spread across the city, killing at least 27 people.
The BBC’s statement comes after Clive responded to viewer concerns after a recent News At Six broadcast.
Fans took to social media earlier this month after his eye appeared to droop and close up.
[bc_video account_id=”5067014667001″ application_id=”” aspect_ratio=”16:9″ autoplay=”” caption=”BBC viewers shocked as Clive Myrie’s eye ‘droops’ during News at Six and ask ‘is he ok?'” embed=”in-page” experience_id=”” height=”100%” language_detection=”” max_height=”360px” max_width=”640px” min_width=”0px” mute=”” padding_top=”56%” picture_in_picture=”” player_id=”default” playlist_id=”” playsinline=”” sizing=”responsive” video_id=”6366744413112″ video_ids=”” width=”640px”]He later responded: “Happy N.Year everyone and thank you all for your concern over my left eye.
“It’s nothing serious, just an infection.
“I did think about wearing an eye patch, but the boss said no! A bit like Long John Silver. He wasn’t having any of it! Cheers.”