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Daily Mirror
Daily Mirror
Entertainment
Katherine Heslop

Tony Blackburn issues health update as Radio 2 DJ goes off air for weeks

BBC Radio 2 host Tony Blackburn has confirmed he will be off air for weeks thanks to a chest infection.

The radio icon, 80, missed his Sounds of the Sixties show last week, with friend Johnnie Walker, 78, stepping in.

Tony also revealed he will have to reschedule his tour, as he requires more treatment than he initially thought.

The I'm A Celebrity star told his supporters on Twitter: “I wanted to give a little update on my health and let you know that I won't be on the radio or in theatres for a little while yet.

“The infection I have is requiring more treatment than initially thought and it means I am having to reschedule the Sounds of the 60s Tour for the moment in order to recover fully.

“All tickets booked will be automatically transferred to the new dates and you will be notified of this change by your ticket provider. I am sorry for the disruption and I really am looking forward to getting back on the road with the band.”

Tony reassured listeners that he will be back in the radio studio as soon as he safely can be, but it might be a few weeks.

He said: “I hope to be back on the radio as soon as possible but it might be a few weeks before I am able to get back in the studio.

Tony Blackburn said his infection required more treatment (WENN.com)

"As you know, I am passionate about my radio shows and I will be back as quickly as I safely can. I want to thank all of the listeners who have sent their well-wishes and messages of support. I do read them all and it really means a lot.

Ending his message, Tony wrote: “Finally, to all the nurses, Dr's and support staff at Barnet General hospital who I spent a few days with over the last week, thank you for looking after me. You are brilliant!”

Last week, Tony took to social media to reveal he's been advised to rest by his doctor as he explained his absence from his usual slot.

He wrote on Twitter: "Hello folks. Just to let you all know, I've had a little recurrence of the chest infection I had a few weeks ago.

"My Dr has told me off for not taking some time to recover properly so I am having a break from the radio this weekend and, sadly, I have had to postpone the Sounds of the 60s shows at Swindon and Redhill next week too.

"New dates are already in the diary though and I really do hope to be back with you soon."

Tony is known for winning his series of I'm A Celebrity (Cameron Laird/REX/Shutterstock)

Followers took to the comment section to wish him a speedy recovery.

One user commented: "Your health comes first. Took me ages to finally realise this and take time off. Please let your body heal."

"Wishing you well. You've brought joy to so many throughout a fantastic career. Take care," another said.

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