BBC Look North presenter Carol Malia has spoken out after she was replaced mid-programme last night (August 9) after suffering a coughing fit live on air.

The long-standing host of the BBC’s North East news was in the middle of reading the headlines on the programme when she could be heard struggling with a cough.

The programme then quickly cut away to a clip of an interview while she tried to get over the tickle in her throat.

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Co-host Jeff Brown was then forced to step in and take over hosting duties for the rest of the show while Carol could still be heard coughing in the background in the studio.

The Northern Echo: Jeff Brown was forced to step in to host the programme. Picture: BBCJeff Brown was forced to step in to host the programme. Picture: BBC

Taking over the programme, Jeff told viewers: “Apologies there from Carol. Just taking over for a few minutes.”

Concerned viewers took to social media to ask after the host.

One said: “What’s happened to @CarolMalia1, is she ok?”

Another Twitter user posted: “Poor @CarolMalia1 having a full on coughing fit on @BBCNEandCumbria. Luckily @JeffAB61 is there to step in while she gets a drink of water. Hope you're feeling better and back in the chair tomorrow Carol.”

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Brown was forced to host the rest of the show before Carol returned ahead of the weather forecast.

Returning to the sofa after her absence Carol told Jeff: “Thank you for standing in, a legacy of covid I think.”

She also joked: “I’m going to have a hot lemon and honey now.”

The Northern Echo: Malia returned to the sofa at the end of the programme. Picture: BBCMalia returned to the sofa at the end of the programme. Picture: BBC

The presenter took to Twitter on Wednesday (August 10) morning to thank concerned fans for their messages and to co-presenter Jeff Brown for stepping in.

She wrote: “First time ever! Covid legacy cough took me off air temporarily. Thanks for the concern and thanks to Jeff and director Neil for being pro’s (sic).”

Fans of the TV host were quick to share their relief at the news she was ok, with one replying: “You had us worried for a moment Carol. Glad you are ok, and great job Jeff for the seamless cover.”

Another added: “That was a bit scary. Glad you recovered.”

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