OMEN
04-06-2009, 05:12 PM
BBC television presenter Clare Balding has apologised for remarks which she made about jockey Liam Treadwell's teeth while on air.
While interviewing Treadwell, who partnered Mon Mome to victory in the Aintree Grand National, Balding said: "Give us a big grin to the camera."
She then said: "Let's see your teeth. He hasn't got the best teeth in the world, but you can afford to go and get them done now if you like." Treadwell said: "Well I could do, but I ain't complaining. It might be bringing on bad luck if I do that, though."
According to the BBC website, 1,477 complaints were lodged about the remarks, which were made live on air.
A BBC spokesperson later said: "Clare Balding had no intention whatsoever of upsetting or embarrassing Liam Treadwell, but she fully accepts that she should not have raised the subject with him at that time."
"The BBC and Clare apologise for any offence caused. Clare has also apologised directly to Liam Treadwell."
RTE
While interviewing Treadwell, who partnered Mon Mome to victory in the Aintree Grand National, Balding said: "Give us a big grin to the camera."
She then said: "Let's see your teeth. He hasn't got the best teeth in the world, but you can afford to go and get them done now if you like." Treadwell said: "Well I could do, but I ain't complaining. It might be bringing on bad luck if I do that, though."
According to the BBC website, 1,477 complaints were lodged about the remarks, which were made live on air.
A BBC spokesperson later said: "Clare Balding had no intention whatsoever of upsetting or embarrassing Liam Treadwell, but she fully accepts that she should not have raised the subject with him at that time."
"The BBC and Clare apologise for any offence caused. Clare has also apologised directly to Liam Treadwell."
RTE