A BOLTON actor has put his name forward in a bid to replace Jeremy Clarkson on Top Gear.

Jack Marsden, who organises the annual Bolton Le Mans Motor Sport event, says he is the man for the job should bosses want a new face to front the hit show.

The embattled presenter remains suspended from the fast-paced and stunt-filled motoring programme after allegedly punching producer Oisin Tymon during a row over a hot meal at a hotel.

Mr Marsden, aged 42, said: "I have done five years as a stand-up comic and five years as a motoring journalist which I think qualifies me for the job and who wouldn't want to be in Clarkson's shoes?

"It's a huge step but someone has to do it."

Both Clarkson and Tymon have given evidence to an internal investigation and the star's future at the BBC is expected to be decided this week.

Other names in the mix, should the 54-year-old get the sack, include Chris Evans and Steve Coogan alter ego Alan Partridge.

Mr Marsden, who appeared in ITV's Heartbeat, added: "It's the world's largest non-fiction TV show so I guess there's a lot at stake.

"My name is now on a list which is being put together for the BBC.

"I'm waiting to see what's going to happen."