Dutch TV Channel BNN, which is viewed mostly by teenagers, has recorded RTL presenter Albert Verlinde's private conversations.

Mr Verlinde is a Dutch actor, theatre producer and TV presenter. He is best known for co-hosting the daily talk show RTL Boulevard in which Dutch as well as international showbiz news is discussed.

The new BNN TV show VOC, hosted by a group of rebellious young presenters, awarded Mr Verlinde the 'The Golden Ear' award on Friday. During Mr Verlinde's show RTL Boulevard, BNN host Sophie Hilbrand presented him the trophy for his 'excellent observational skills'.

When Albert Verlinde asked Sophie Hilbrand whether the prize was a joke, she kept a straight face saying that "this is our real prize".

But it appears that there is more to the 'ear' than was expected. The makers of VOC have since told Mr Verlinde that the award contains a bugging device which has recorded the RTL presenter's private conversations. The act was an attempt by BNN to draw attention to the view that Albert Verlinde lacks respect for the privacy of famous Dutch people.

The showbiz expert has said that he doesn't want the conversations to be aired. BNN is currently considering if they will respect his wishes.