Chris Evans has been described as more volatile than his predecessor Jeremy Clarkson by BBC staff forced to tolerate his diva-ish outbursts.

One BBC insider said that Evans shouted so violently that he reduced an employee to tears and continued to scream until an engineer intervened.

The source said that his ego was 'out of control' and some suggested that he was finding it difficult to juggle his TV role and BBC Radio 2 breakfast show.

Chris Evans (left) has been described as more volatile than his predecessor Jeremy Clarkson (right) by BBC staff forced to tolerate his diva-ish outbursts

One BBC insider said that Evans shouted so violently that he reduced one member of staff to tears and continued to scream until an engineer intervened

Another source said that his ego was 'out of control' and some suggested that he was finding it difficult to juggle his TV role and BBC Radio 2 breakfast show

It has even been suggested that he has outdone Clarkson, who was fired for punching a producer.

The source told The Sun: 'He's behaving far worse than Clarkson ever did — which is the opposite of what the Top Gear change was meant to create.'

'The Radio 2 show is the country's most popular. But Chris is turning up exhausted and miserable and his staff have noticed a huge difference.

'Top Gear's a full-time job, but Radio 2 involves waking at dawn every day. It's probably no surprise he seems close to breaking point.'

Mark Linsey, Director of BBC Studios and Bob Shennan, Controller of Radio 2, denied the claims.

He said: 'The assertion that Chris Evans' behaviour at Radio 2 since beginning work at Top Gear has been in any way below BBC acceptable levels is completely untrue.'

It comes as Evans faces even more pressure from an investigation by broadcast regulator Ofcom into whether his show breached rules when actor Jeremy Irons swore on air.

But bosses backed the presenter, with Mr Linsey and Radio 2 boss Bob Shennan saying he has shown even greater 'commitment and professionalism' since taking on Top Gear.

BBC 2 bosses backed the presenter, with Director of Studios Mark Linsey and Radio 2 boss Bob Shennan saying he has shown even greater 'commitment and professionalism' since taking on Top Gear

They are under the added pressure of battling for hype with former stars Clarkson (centre), Hammond (left) and May (right), who are making their own competing series for Amazon Prime

Mr Linsey added: 'Since taking on Top Gear alongside his Radio 2 breakfast show, Chris has displayed even greater commitment and professionalism.

'He remains a team player, a huge asset to the BBC and continues to show outstanding leadership in all he does on radio, television or for Children in Need.'

The revamped Top Gear show - previously presented by Clarkson, Richard Hammond and James May - has already faced a series of controversies and setbacks.

Matt Le Blanc sparked public outrage when he was seen doing doughnuts around the Cenotaph, which many dubbed as an intentional bid to court controversy.

The stunt is said to have caused friction between Friends star Le Blanc and Evans - the two stars of the show - who later apologised 'unreservedly' to fans.

It followed a number of breakdowns and an embarrassing gaffe in which it was revealed that a Morris Minor Chris Evans was seen driving had not been properly taxed.