FORMER Padgate DJ Chris Evans is the highest paid star at the BBC pocketing more than £2.2 million, it has been revealed.

His salary was announced in the corporation's annual report under new requirements set out under the BBC's new Royal Charter.

The breakfast show host made between £2.2m and £2.25m in 2016 to 2017.

His pay is understood to include a portion of his earnings from his time on Top Gear.

Claudia Winkleman is the BBC's highest-paid female celebrity, earning between £450,000 and £500,000.

Sports presenter Jonathan Davies, who played for Warrington in the 90s, earned between £150,000 to £199,999. 

It is the first time this information has been made public.

But the figures only refer to the amount of licence fee money each person receives.

It does not include their earnings from other broadcasters or commercial activities.

The list names 96 stars who earn more than £150,000 a year - combined their earnings total almost £30m.

More to follow.