James May launches solo YouTube channel with brutal two-word message to fans

James May has delivered a sharp two-word response as he reveals his departure from the motoring world with Clarkson and Hammond. The ex-Top Gear presenter is steering into new territory, launching his own solo YouTube channel at the beginning of May, diverging from his usual automotive escapades with Richard Hammond and Jeremy Clarkson.

In the inaugural video on his channel, James, who has been vocal about wanting a fresh car series post-The Grand Tour, greeted viewers with: "Hello drinkers, you have just landed on James May's Planet Gin. The official YouTube channel of JamesGin.com."

He clarified the nature of his channel, stating: "It is a YouTube channel in that it's on YouTube, it's not a YouTube channel in that it's not going to follow the YouTube norms."

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The 61 year old assured his audience that he wouldn't be incessantly prompting them to 'like, comment and subscribe. '.

James added: "That's just too needy for a person in my position and of my age.", reports the Express.

He then offered a sneak peek of what to expect, showing a teaser where he's seen gearing up to cook.

Another clip features him in a car park with headphones on, in front of a laptop, hinting at discussions about potential dangers. James reiterated: "As I was saying earlier on, I don't really care if you like or you comment or you subscribe or do any of those things."

"Watch it if you fancy it, if you don't? There's not going to be that much on there."

"I'm not going to be feeding the beast because Gin just isn't that interesting."

"I'm going to put something up there when it occurs to me and I can be ar**d". James cheekily told his critics: "If you don't like that, sod off."

In the video description, James poked fun at the myriad reasons people start channels, quipping: "Even washing machine spares have one."

He made it clear that fans shouldn't expect frequent content, as he plans to upload only when inspiration strikes.

The channel was set up in early April, but it wasn't until May that James posted his first video.

Remarkably, within just 24 hours of his first video going live, James had already attracted over 11,000 subscribers.

This isn't James's first foray into YouTube; long-time followers will recall his appearances in 'What Next' videos where he gave pub tours and took on cooking challenges.

Fans were quick to express their excitement about James's new venture. @yell.

owprimrose commented: "Can't wait to see! ".

@Jacksonsandell chimed in with: "GOOD NEWS! ".

And @Gribakdnac added: "I'm watching, thanks mate."