Ex Top Gear host Chris Evans says sorry for motorway toilet stop

Chris Evans has apologised after being spotted urinating on the side of a motorway. Photo/Getty

Chris Evans has apologised after photos appeared of the former Top Gear host urinating on the side of a motorway.

Photos of Evans, who replaced Jeremy Clarkson as host of Top Gear but quit after a season which saw falling ratings and criticism of his presenting style, appeared in The Sun showing him relieving himself in bushes on the side of the M4 motorway, which runs between London and South Wales.

Onlookers said he was also drinking from a bottle of cognac.

Evans, 50, has since apologised, releasing a statement to The Mirror that said the pit stop was necessary because the trip was taking longer than expected.

"Myself and several colleagues and friends had finished lunch in London and were travelling back to Berkshire in a private hire people carrier," he said.

"For one reason or another, a journey that usually takes 45 minutes to an hour took almost twice that. My bladder not being as robust as it once was could no longer take the strain and I had to go."

"I apologise profusely if have caused anyone any offence and take full responsibility for the matter."

The BBC hasn't announced a replacement for Evans on the next season of Top Gear, leaving co-host Matt LeBlanc to step into the presenting role.

Stepping down from Top Gear. Gave it my best shot but sometimes that's not enough. The team are beyond brilliant, I wish them all the best.

— Chris Evans (@achrisevans) July 4, 2016