Eamonn Holmes insults 'GMTV' executives

Eamonn Holmes banned three executives from his GMTV leaving party, and called them "idiots" in a speech, The Sun claims today.

The host apparently told guests that managing director Paul Corley, director of programmes Peter McCugh and editor Martin Frizell, had been banned from the party.

In his farewell speech, the newspaper claims that Eamonn said, "If any of those c**** are sacked, I will come back, I promise. I love you all and will miss everyone - apart from those idiots."

A source told the newspaper, "Paul, Peter and Martin were staggered that Eamonn had banned them. But they happily stayed away and forked out £15,000 for the do. It's no secret there have been disagreements between Eamonn and the management - but he has never said anything so outspoken about them.

"It was said in quite a tongue-in-cheek way and there was a mixture of gasps and laughter. Eamonn then went on to have a great time. He obviously just fancied going out with a bit of a bang."

Holmes has been with the show since its launch in 1993. He left last month after deciding not to renew his contract.