The BBC sacked Scott Mills after learning that the alleged victim in the case was under 16, BBC News has said it understands. 

The broadcaster has confirmed it was aware in 2017 of a police investigation into Mr Mills, related to serious sexual offences dating back to between 1997 and 2000. 

The investigation ended without charges, after prosecutors concluded there was insufficient evidence. 

However, the BBC has confirmed it had sacked Mr Mills from his presenting slot on BBC Radio 2 when new information came to light. 

Scott Mills. Picture by: Alamy.com. 

The 53 year old has since issued a statement in which he said he had "fully cooperated and responded" with the police investigation at the time. 

"Since the investigation related to an allegation that dates back nearly 30 years and the police investigation was closed seven years ago, I hope that the public and the media will understand and respect my wish not to make any further public comment on this matter," he wrote. 

“I wish to thank from the bottom of my heart all those who have reached out to me with kindness, my former colleagues and my beloved listeners, who I greatly miss."

On Newstalk Breakfast, journalist Vinny McAvinney described Mr Mills as a “huge figure” in the British broadcasting world. 

He started out on BBC Radio 1 back in 1998 and moved to BBC Radio 2 in 2024 - Britain’s most popular station. 

“He took over from Zoe Ball in 2025 the breakfast show, that is the show that Terry Wogan once presented,” he explained. 

“It is the biggest radio radio show here in the United Kingdom. 

“Along the way, he’s done lots of TV presenting, things like the national lottery draw, Strictly Come Dancing, he was with his husband on Race Across The World. 

“This is someone, who in terms of the BBC, has a multipolar career here.” 

Mr McAvinney continued that the BBC has endured a “very difficult” few years, mostly notably with the recent Huw Edward scandal.

Corporation bosses will be hoping that Mr Mills’ sacking will draw a line under the matter. 

“They’re hoping that the new Director General Matthew Brittin will be able to come in with a clear deck - because he’s got huge challenges,” Mr McAvinney said. 

“He’s got to renegotiate the Royal Charter for the BBC, negotiate the licence fee and he’s got the court case with Donald Trump. 

“So, it’s a very sensitive time at the BBC.” 

Main image: Scott Mills. Picture by: Alamy.com.