Jonathan Ross promises smashing BBC finale

Jonathan Ross has said farewell to the BBC - by fighting back the tears and smashing up the set of his chat show during Wednesday night's last-ever recording.

Perhaps inspired by the presence of one of his guests, kung fu star Jackie Chan, Ross started to punch a wall while yelling: "We're closing out. We're out of business." Ross also threw in several unsubtle references to his new ITV chat show, which starts filming late next year.

Ross's final Friday Night with... had a party atmosphere, as the 49-year old broadcaster hugged members of his guest band Roxy Music and had footballer David Beckham sitting on his knee. Actor Mickey Rourke presented Ross with a pair of black leather designer shoes, saying "I hear you're going on a journey. You're going to need [these]." Ross promptly put the shoes on and strutted across the stage, quipping: "Oooh welcome to ITV!".

Despite his bravado Ross, who quit the BBC after 13 years, became emotional as he received a standing ovation from the studio audience at the end of filming. Wiping away a tear, he said: "I really don't know what to say. Thanks to all the guests we've had on tonight, had over the last 10 years - 96 per cent have been great!"

He added: "The press make me out to be arrogant but I feel very honoured and humbled and lucky for this experience."

The show airs on BBC1 on Friday, 10.35pm. Ross's last appearance on the BBC will be on Saturday when he signs off his Radio 2 show. His final guests there will include reality TV singing duo Jedward and comedian Alan Carr plus a live performance from Tom Jones. ·