Television presenter Matthew Kelly is to be replaced as the host of Stars in their Eyes for three special editions of the programme, Granada has announced.

The programme's makers said Davina McCall would step in for the 52-year-old entertainer, who "emphatically denies" allegations of child abuse made against him earlier this week.

Granada said it continued to stand by the star, but McCall would perform the caretaking role "in the circumstances".

I've huge respect for Davina and know she will do a terrific job caretaking the show Matthew Kelly

Mr Kelly, who was held in connection with "historic allegations" of sexual abuse against boys, has not been charged and has been given police bail until 12 March.

Tam Paton, the former manager of 1970s boy band The Bay City Rollers, who was arrested as part of the same investigation, was also bailed until 12 March by Surrey Police.

But Mr Paton was immediately re-arrested by Scottish officers on drugs charges and on Friday he was bailed by an Edinburgh court while investigations continued.

'Difficult time'

Mr Kelly, a father of two from Chiswick in west London, had been due to host the series of celebrity specials, which are being filmed next week.

Tam Paton, former manager of the Bay City Rollers, was also arrested

But on Friday night Granada said it was best if the shows, due to be broadcast in the next few weeks, were presented by Ms McCall instead.

It said in a statement: "Granada and ITV fully support Matthew Kelly during this difficult time.

"He has emphatically denied the allegation made against him and no charge has been brought.

"The Stars in their Eyes Celebrity Specials due in the studio this coming week will go ahead, but in the circumstances Davina McCall will act as guest presenter on Matthew's behalf.

"Matthew is grateful to her for agreeing to appear at such short notice."

Mr Kelly said: "I've huge respect for Davina and know she will do a terrific job caretaking the show."

'Complete shock'

The entertainer performed as Captain Hook in the pantomime Peter Pan on Thursday, hours after being released on police bail.

He was cheered as he took to the stage for the performance at Birmingham's Repertory Theatre, where he had been arrested the night before.

On Friday Granada said Mr Kelly would start rehearsals in ten days' time for the theatre's touring version of John Steinbeck's classic novel, Of Mice and Men.

A statement released on his behalf by solicitors said: "Mr Kelly emphatically denies the allegation made against him which has come as a complete shock and surprise."

Jonathan King

Both Mr Kelly and Mr Paton were arrested as part of the sex abuse inquiry that led to the conviction of pop mogul Jonathan King.

King was jailed for seven years in November 2001 after he was found guilty of four indecent assaults and two serious sexual offences against boys, carried out in the 1980s.

He was also registered as a sex offender and banned from working with children.