BBC in last minute scramble to limit Gregg Wallace and John Torode's MasterChef appearance

MasterChef is set to return tonight after a last-minute scramble to re-edit the programme and limit the appearances of its presenters Gregg Wallace and John Torode. Both Wallace, 60, and Torode were axed from the BBC cooking show after claims of gross misconduct. The MasterChef presenters, who began fronting the show in 2005, were both sacked in quick succession. Wallace was dropped after more than 45 complaints against him were upheld following a BBC investigation. Australian-born chef Torode, 59, also lost his job after two decades over allegations that he used a racial slur, which he claims to have "absolutely no recollection" of. The BBC have since decided to go ahead with airing the latest series despite complaints from broadcast union Bectu which said inappropriate behaviour should not be "rewarded with prime-time coverage". Meanwhile, BBC sources reportedly told The i that they accept some viewers will not want to watch the series.

The new series features amateur chefs who battle for a place in the quarter final in an attempt to win the coveted trophy. It is currently available to watch on BBC iPlayer. One contestant, Sarah Shafi, will not appear on the programme after she complained about the behaviour of Gregg Wallace. Banijay UK, the production company behind MasterChef, told the BBC they had no records of Ms Shafi raising concerns about Mr Wallace's behaviour at the time. They also said they found no evidence of her claims in unedited footage.

Six contestants are taking part in tonight's episode of MasterChef including vocal coach Beth, 40, said she was inspired by her friend's father who was a trained chef and would teach her how to cook.

Gemma, 42, was born in Hong Kong, grew up in Singapore and Malaysia before moving to Manchester and then London.

She said she missed Malaysian food so much after moving to the UK that is "physically hurt".

Recruiter and Thai boxing coach Gon, 26, from Coventry is looking to overcome a kitchen nightmare as a child to win the competition.

Born and raised in New Zealand, writer Penelope, 70, now lives in Dorset and admitted she can't "resist a challenge".

Digital marketing manager Shaun, 28, said he was first put in the kitchen by his parents aged nine.

While marketing coordinator Thea, 28, said she dreams of owning her own restaurant one day.

Speaking about their decision to air the new series, the BBC said: "This has not been an easy decision in the circumstances and we appreciate not everyone will agree with it.

"In showing the series, which was filmed last year, it in no way diminishes our view of the seriousness of the upheld findings against both presenters. We have been very clear on the standards of behaviour that we expect of those who work at the BBC or on shows made for the BBC."