BBC Radio 2 DJ Bob Harris has revealed prostate cancer has spread to his spine

Legendary presenter Bob Harris has revealed his cancer has spread.

The 80-year-old BBC Radio 2 DJ previously told fans back in 2007 that he had been diagnosed with prostate cancer, but at the time the disease was being managed with treatment.

However, in an update on Instagram on Thursday (23.04.26), Bob told his followers that the cancer has now spread from his prostate to his upper spine.

Sharing a photo of himself smiling while standing in a garden supported by a walking stick, Bob wrote: “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.”

He “immediately” underwent a course of radiotherapy to “bring things back under control”.

He added: “Thankfully I’m back at home now, on the pathway to recovery and feeling stronger every day.”

Bob - who presented The Old Grey Whistle Test on BBC2 from 1972 until December 1979 - has now embarked on a “programme of rehab”, and paid tribute to his family in the Instagram post, as he revealed his son had taken the photograph he’d shared on Instagram.

Bob continued: “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.”

He went on to thank his friends at BBC Radio 2 for being “supportive beyond words”, adding: “I know for certain that I’ll be returning to my programmes as soon as I am able.”

He has also set a “personal target” for himself to return to the sound waves, revealing he hopes to be back for his country show in mid-May and for his Sounds of the 70s show at the end of May.

He said: “I absolutely cannot wait to be back!”

Bob also thanked everyone who has been in touch with him, including Zoe Ball, with whom he recorded a programme to celebrate his 80th birthday earlier this month.

He 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! xxx"

The comments section of the Instagram post was immediately filled with messages of support from Bob’s nearest and dearest, as well as fans of the DJ.

Country singer Ashley McBryde wrote: “You’re on our minds, Bob. We love you.

“Sending you fast healing and big giant hugs!!”

As Gary Kemp added: “Get well soon, Bob. Sending you lots of love.”

With country duo Ward Thomas commenting: “Sending you all our love and a speedy recovery!”