A BBC Breakfast star has stepped back amid allegations of workplace bullying. Richard Frediani is accused of “shaking” a female colleague and of aggressive behaviour in the workplace, and has now taken “an extended period of leave”, according to The Sun.

A source told the publication: “It’s been an incredibly challenging past few months for everyone involved with BBC Breakfast – from crew to on-screen talent. Fredi was already taking a break because obviously the allegations against him have been pretty damning, and he needed time to reflect. He’s devastated by some of the claims and has also had a lot of behind the scenes support from colleagues, many of whom think he’s a brilliant boss.”

The source added that he is “still in touch with the team” and that BBC executives are following duty of care protocols.

According to the publication, Frediani had been taking a holiday, but decided to extend his time away in a “mutual” decision with other bosses. Director of Live and Daily News John McAndrew is said to have shared the news with internal staff in an email, marking the “stressful time” at BBC headquarters.

The BAFTA-winning editor is said to have sparked a series of “top level crisis meetings’ to contain the situation amid reports of bullying and on-set tension.

The BBC said: “While we do not comment on individual cases, we take all complaints about conduct at work extremely seriously and will not tolerate behaviour that is not in line with our values.

“We have robust processes in place and would encourage any staff with concerns to raise them directly with us so they can be addressed.”

Express.co.uk has contacted the BBC for comment.