BBC Breakfast taken off air early as Naga Munchetty and Charlie Stayt issue statement

BBC Breakfast ended earlier than usual on Saturday morning

BBC Breakfast viewers were met with an unexpected early sign-off this morning, as hosts Charlie Stayt and Naga Munchetty explained the reason behind the abrupt end to the programme.

On Saturday morning (April 26), the show commenced at its regular 6am slot but wrapped up earlier than usual, just shy of 8.30am, despite typically running until 10am.

The shortened broadcast was anticipated, however, as throughout the episode, Charlie and Naga kept audiences informed about the upcoming BBC special programme dedicated to the funeral of Pope Francis, reports the Express.

During today's show, the presenters connected with correspondents in Rome, and BBC presenter Reeta Chakrabarti joined via video link from the city, where she is spearheading the broadcaster's coverage of the solemn event.

As they concluded the broadcast, Naga announced to the audience: "Early finish for Breakfast today. The time now is just coming up to half past 8 because next on BBC One there will be, of course, live coverage of the funeral of Pope Francis. That begins at nine o'clock."

She continued, detailing the attendance at the funeral: "Various delegations, dignitaries, leaders, world leaders, church leaders, monarchs are going to be attending the funeral to pay their respects to Pope Francis who died at the age of 88 on Monday."

Charlie then took over, remarking: "Already this morning we have had a sense from afar of some of the sounds and images of what will be an extraordinary occasion. From us here, it's goodbye."

In a touching conclusion to the broadcast, a live feed from the Vatican was aired without any accompanying music, showcasing the numerous mourners who had gathered to honour the late Pope.

The BBC's dedicated coverage of the Pope's funeral kicked off at half past eight and is set to run until 12.30pm. The programme has so far highlighted the presence of many well-known figures at the ceremony, including US President Donald Trump and his wife Melania.

BBC Breakfast airs every day on BBC One and iPlayer from 6am