BBC radio legend Bob Harris has shared the sad news that his prostate cancer has metastasised to his spine, as he gave a "frightening" update to his social media followers.
The 80-year-old took to Instagram to share a photo of himself smiling in the sunshine while propping himself up with a walking stick. In a lengthy caption, he penned: "I'm sorry it's been so long since I last posted but the past few weeks have proved to be an extremely testing time. When I posted last time from hospital, we were trying to find the reason for the excruciating pain I was feeling in my back.
"Several scans later, we discovered that my prostate cancer has got into my upper spine…really frightening news. So, I immediately began a course of radiotherapy – two weeks in hospital in total – to bring things back under control. Thankfully I'm back at home now, on the pathway to recovery and feeling stronger every day."
He continued: "I have started a programme of rehab and today I got out into this glorious weather for the first time with my son @expiredfilmclub, who took the photograph. My family has been here for me in a massive way, helping me through one of the most difficult times of my life. I can’t even begin to think of a way to say thank you. I love them so much.
© Instagram"Helen Thomas and the @bbcradio2 family have also been supportive beyond words and I know for certain that I'll be returning to my programmes as soon as I am able. I've set a personal target of mid-May for Country and the end of May for Sounds of the 70s. I know that my friends @dariusrucker and @shaunkeaveny_ have been doing a fabulous job… but I absolutely cannot wait to be back."
Bob concluded: "Thank you for all the messages you've sent via the conversations @zoetheball and I recorded for my 80th birthday programme. I had no idea then that I was about to relive the very experiences we talked about! Just want to send so much love to Zoe and to everyone who have been in touch. See you soon, folks!"
Fans were quick to share their support with Bob, as one wrote: "You're on our minds, Bob. We love you. Sending you fast healing and big giant hugs!!" and a second added: "So glad you're out in the sunshine! I'm cheering you on from the sidelines and sending tons of love and light your way."
A third penned: "Gosh Bob, that must've been so scary! Well done on getting through such an arduous period of treatment. Keep on getting better."
Bob's incredible career
Bob's first break was when he presented The Old Grey Whistle Test on BBC2, with his delivery style and vocal tones earning him the moniker of 'Whispering Bob'. The sound of his voice made him the ideal fit for the radio, and in 1981, he appeared on BBC Radio Oxford, where he presented the weekday afternoon show.
© RedfernsThe star later started presenting a show on BBC Radio 1 in 1990, initially hosting a midnight show on the station. He stayed there until 1993, when the show was cancelled, although he remained with the network, presenting the occasional documentary.
He returned to BBC Radio 2 in 1997, where he has remained ever since, presenting various major shows, including Sounds of the 70s and The Country Show. He briefly took a break in 2019 when he underwent an aortic dissection.
