BBC Radio presenter Eddie Nestor has announced he is stepping away from his show after being diagnosed with cancer.
The 62-year-old shared the news in a statement posted on social media, in which he wrote: "Greetings. You may have noticed I’ve been a little quieter than usual. Well… this wasn’t quite the June we'd planned.
"I missed my own brunch and ended up spending Father's Day and my birthday in hospital. Life has a funny way of rewriting your diary. I've been diagnosed with cancer.
"The good news is that, thanks to an incredible medical team, I’ve now had my first chemotherapy treatment."
The Death in Paradise star continued: "We're thankful, we're hopeful, and as a family, we're looking upward and forward.
© Aimee Rose McGhee/Dave Benett/Ge"I honestly don't know exactly what the next few months will look like. I'll work when I'm able, post when I feel like it and spend the rest of the time concentrating on getting stronger."
However, he said there was "one thing I do know", explaining his “greatest source of strength” was his family.
Telling fans not to "feel sorry" for him, Eddie added: "I’d much rather have your prayers, your love, your encouragement and the occasional laugh. That's the fuel I need."
Eddie ended his post by thanking everyone for their love and support.
BBC explains
Meanwhile, in a post shared on Instagram, BBC London wrote: "Our friend and colleague Eddie Nestor has announced that he will be away from Radio London for a period of time while he receives treatment for cancer. Everyone at BBC London sends Eddie and his family our love and support."
Sara David, editor of the station, said: "Everyone at BBC Radio London and all of his loyal listeners are sending Eddie and his family all our support and best wishes."
It is understood that Nestor is not stepping down – his show is currently being looked after by Jim Davis and other voices from the Radio London team.
Eddie, who was awarded an MBE in 2018 for his charity work and services to radio, has been presenting on BBC Radio London since 2002.
