MATT LeBlanc has taken the wheel of the new Rolls-Royce Dawn and put it through its paces around Ireland's Ring of Kerry.

Viewers of BBC Two's new series of Top Gear will see the former Friends star driving around Co Kerry's scenic route in the luxurious convertible (or drophead).

The name Dawn was previously given to just 28 drophead models between 1950 and 1954.

Fine Gael politician Brendan Griffin praised the show's Irish adventures earlier this week, saying he was "delighted".

He revealed he had contacted the popular motoring show two years ago to invite them to film in Kerry and the Wild Atlantic Way.

"I believed that the landscape, the roads and the people would be a perfect fit for the programme," he said.

He added that a visit would expose the area to a "whole new audience and will present a massive opportunity for tourism".

Another favourable "boost" was received last year with the news that blockbuster Star Wars had filmed scenes on the Skellig Islands.

Mr Griffin said: "Major programmes and films such as Star Wars' visit to the Skelligs, and now Top Gear's trip to Kerry, draw attention to the area and their importance cannot be underestimated.

"This is a free showcase for our spectacular county and culture."

LeBlanc and Top Gear co-host Chris Evans dismissed rumours of a rift.

The presenters were reported to have fallen out over a stunt filmed at the Cenotaph war memorial for the revamped BBC series.

Writing on Twitter, the US star said: "I'm at war with @achrisevans? That's funny, I thought we were pals."

Evans, 50, also laughed off the report.

"Just been on the phone to @Matt_LeBlanc to confirm we are 'at war' as reported in The Sun today. He says, 'sure, whatever..' Why I oughta !" he tweeted.

The new series of Top Gear will return in May.