BBC Breakfast's VE Day report sparks outrage as viewers 'switch off'

Celebrations have already begun as the public lined The Mall ahead of the appearance to mark 80 years since the end of the war in Europe May 8, 1945. switched from their regular programming on Bank Holiday Monday to speak with attendees ahead of the event but viewers issued a similar complaint about the coverage as BBC correspondent Ashley John Baptiste fronted parts of the festivities.

The correspondent chatted with the public about attending the VE Day celebrations but many admitted they were forced to turn off the "disjointed" coverage. One person tweeted: "This is dreadful #bbcbreakfast." Another commented: "I bet the veterans think 'why the f*** did we bother?' #bbcbreakfast." A third penned: "#bbcbreakfast I hate Bank Holidays... Really buggers up my TV viewing schedule..." A fourth shared: "That's it, I'm switching over." Another moaned: "What is she on about?? #bbcbreakfast," in reference to a member of the public speaking about commeorating VE Day, while another replied: "No idea."

It comes as the BBC correspondent spoke with attendees but viewers were left unimpressed by the coverage.

BBC presenter Sarah Campbell commented: "Oh gosh, we were just seeing that aerial view weren't we of The Mall. Let's go there now and speak to my colleage Ashley who is there anc chatting to some of those people who have made the journey to come here because they want to be here in person and see that procession as it passes. What are people saying?"

Ashley replied: "Hi Sarah. Still chilly here on The Mall but I have to say the crowds are gathering thick and fast."

He then turned to two attendees and spoke with them about celebrating VE Day, as they shared their grandfather had fought and died in World War Two.

The reporter then moved swiftly on to two ladies who sported patriotic attire to mark the occasion but during their chat Ashley was forced to frequently "move on" as the conversation almost veered away from the celebrations which some viewers dubbed "difficult" to watch.

Britain will come together to commemorate VE Day's 80th anniversary on Monday (May 5) with the Red Arrows set to arc across the skies. The date saw Nazi Germany officially defeated in 1945 as World War Two came to an end in Europe after six long years.

The skies over central London will be left red, white and blue as the Royal Air Force's Red Arrows soar over the capital.