Russell Brand is resigning from his Radio 2 show in the wake of the controversy over calls made to Fawlty Towers actor Andrew Sachs, he said.

His abrupt departure comes as Jonathan Ross, who also took part in the prank, issued a public apology over his "juvenile and thoughtless" remarks.

Former heroin addict Brand has presented his Radio 2 show since November 2006 and is thought to be paid more than £200,000 a year by the BBC.

Brand said in a statement that he took "complete responsibility" for the incident and that he got "caught up in the moment".

Brand said: "As I only do the radio show to make people laugh I've decided that given the subsequent coverage I will stop doing the show."

He apologised to listeners, but because they would be "upset" that his Saturday night BBC show cannot continue.

Brand, 33, and Ross, 47, were suspended by the BBC, 11 days after the offensive phone call was broadcast on Radio 2.

In a statement, Brand said: "I have apologised to Andrew Sachs for the rude messages I left on October 18th and he has graciously accepted. As I only do the radio show to make people laugh I've decided that given the subsequent coverage I will stop doing the show.

"I got a bit caught up in the moment and forgot that at the core of the rude comments and silly songs were the real feelings of a beloved and brilliant comic actor and a very sweet and big hearted young woman. Apologies are also owed to the loyal listeners of the show who enjoyed its shambolic spirit and anarchy and will be upset that it cannot continue.

"I take complete responsibility and offer nothing but love and contrition and I hope that now Jonathan and the BBC will endure less forensic wrath."