Lower audience figures come after BBC quietly released the first three episodes online

The BBC has taken the decision to air the show despite criticism from broadcast union Bectu which said inappropriate behaviour should not be 'rewarded with prime-time coverage'.

Gregg Wallace and John Torode were both sacked following a report into conduct on the BBC show.

The first three episodes of the scandal-ridden cookery show have been released on BBC iPlayer

Allegations surfaced against Wallace towards the end of filming last autumn

BBC said decision to air new series in wake of Gregg Wallace and John Torode’s sacking had ‘not been an easy’ one

Lower audience figures come after BBC quietly released the first three episodes online