Chris Evans quits Top Gear: The funniest reactions from Nigel Farage gags to calls to scrap the show

Chris Evans has quit as Top Gear host after just one series in the driving seat.

The presenter announced he would be standing down on Monday afternoon in a tweet admitting that he “gave it his best shot but sometimes that’s not enough”.

Social media immediately ignited with gags referencing the string of recent high-profile resignations (notably Nigel Farage’s as UKIP leader earlier the same day) while others continued to berate Evans for his “shouty” style and failure to connect with the committed audience previous hosts Jeremy Clarkson, Richard Hammond and James May left behind.

Some made quips at Evans’ repeated use of the word FACT in tweets to emphasise what he saw as positive viewing figures each week, despite them plummeting to an all-time low on Sunday.

Others argued that the problem with the new Top Gear was that fans were not willing to accept a different host, despite Evans’ colleagues Matt LeBlanc, Rory Reid and Sabine Schmitz seemingly proving more popular with viewers. Some Twitter users have suggested that the BBC axe the hit motoring show altogether.

It remains to be seen whether Evans’ co-hosts will continue but it sounds likely judging by his official statement. “I have never worked with a more committed and driven team than the team I have worked with over the last twelve months,” he said.

“I feel like my standing aside is the single best thing I can now do to help the cause. I remain a huge fan of the show, always have been, always will be. I will continue to focus on my radio show and the allied events that it encompasses.”