BBC scandal: Parents of youngster issue new statement after unexpected twist - 'We're sad'

Claims made by the mother are said to be "rubbish", according to a lawyer representing the young person.

In a letter to the BBC, the youngster's lawyer disputes the story and claims a denial letter was sent to the Sun on Friday evening saying there was "no truth to it".

The mother of the alleged recipient claims her child used the money to fund an addiction to crack cocaine and says she blames the presenter for "destroying her child's life".

“It is sad but we stand by our account and we hope they get the help they need," the mother told The Sun.

“We did this to help - and the presenter has got into their head. How did they afford a lawyer? We are so sad.”

The step-father added: “We are disappointed they made a statement. It’s not true.”

The unnamed senior figure is said to have first asked the youngster for images when they were 17-years-old.

They have also been accused of continuing to make a number of payments over the years, according to the individual's family.

The BBC has said it had been investigating a complaint since May, when it was first made aware, and that new allegations of a “different nature” were reported on Thursday.

A legal letter sent to the BBC states: "For the avoidance of doubt, nothing inappropriate or unlawful has taken place between our client and the BBC personality and the allegations reported in the Sun newspaper are 'rubbish'."

Earlier today, the Metropolitan Police has said it is "assessing the information" following a meeting with the BBC.

A spokesperson for The Sun said: "We have reported a story about two very concerned parents who made a complaint to the BBC about the behaviour of a presenter and the welfare of their child.

"Their complaint was not acted upon by the BBC. We have seen evidence that supports their concerns. It’s now for the BBC to properly investigate."