Bob Harris takes a break from Radio 2 due to illness

Bob Harris is taking some time off from presenting his BBC Radio 2 country show after suffering a tear to his aorta.

In a statement, Bob says: “I am sorry to say that I will be unable to broadcast on the Radio 2 Country Show for the next few weeks. Ten days ago, while out walking, I suffered a tear to my aorta known as an aortic dissection. The aorta is basically the M1 of the body and any damage is regarded as extremely serious.

“For the past few years I have been walking an average of five miles a day and I am convinced that the level of fitness I have achieved during that time helped save my life.

“It was an incredibly scary moment and I am massively indebted to the ambulance crew who attended so promptly, the Intensive Care team and the consultants at the John Radcliffe Hospital in Oxford and to my wife Trudie and my wonderful family who have rallied round me with huge love and support.

“I am not exactly sure when I will be on air again but I am on the road to recovery now and will be back playing music for you on Radio 2 as soon as possible.

“Thank you for everything.”

I am going to have to take it easy for a while but I am getting better and I will be OK pic.twitter.com/sg4ndrU1bg

— Bob Harris (@WhisperingBob) June 12, 2019

Lewis Carnie, Head of Radio 2 wished Bob, 73 a speedy recovery on behalf of his Radio 2 listeners and said he looked forward to welcoming him back when he’s ready.

Paul Sexton will cover The Country Show for the next two weeks and further deputy presenters are to be announced in due course.

Everyone here at OnTheRadio wishes Bob a speedy recovery.