Recording of a special one-off Christmas episode of Britain's Got Talent has been postponed after several crew members tested positive for COVID-19, ITV has confirmed.

The show's first ever festive edition will see a number of the best acts from the last 14 series return for new performances, with a virtual audience made up of key workers crowning a Christmas champion.

The episode had been due to be pre-recorded this evening but at least three workers on the show tested positive for coronavirus yesterday, prompting the decision to cancel tonight's recording.

"It's the last thing Britain's Got Talent bosses would have wanted on day one of the new production," a source told The Sun.

"Everything was ready to go so they're gutted it's immediately ground to a halt. Everyone was told to stay away and those involved now must self-isolate.

"They can take no chances, particularly with some of the returning winners potentially vulnerable."

An ITV spokeswoman confirmed: "As a result of a positive Covid-19 result received yesterday we have implemented our protocols and a number of crew members are self-isolating at home.

"As a result, we are unable to continue filming our BGT Christmas Special today and have taken the decision to postpone.

"The safety of all those involved in the show is our number one priority and we follow extensive Covid-19 related procedures to adhere to all Government guidelines."

The final of the most recent series aired on Sunday with comedy musician Jon Courtenay being named the winner.