Radio veteran Bob Harris has said he has started intensive radiotherapy in an emotional health update

Harris, 80, has prostate cancer and in April he revealed it has spread to his upper spine and in June stepped down from hosting his Radio 2 shows Sounds Of The 70s and Radio 2 Country to focus on treatment and his recovery.

He has since started an intensive course of intravenous radiotherapy which should “keep things at bay”.

In a post shared on Instagram, Harris wrote: “I have been missing my programmes so much, but this space has given me a most beautiful summer here at home, enjoying a most precious commodity… TIME.

“I feel very blessed to have been able to spend lovely moments with family and friends (some of which I’ve posted here on Instagram) in the glorious summer sunshine, but during this time my cancer has been getting more of a hold.

“I still feel well but I am now at the start of an intensive course of intravenous radiotherapy which we are confident will keep things at bay. I should know the outcome quite soon.

“It’s a very emotional roller coaster. But, as you know, I’m an extremely positive person, and I continue to be determined to continue to get the best out of everyday.”

Harris said “it isn’t always easy” and that he was in tears when he left the hospital with his son Miles on Friday.

“My message to you if you too are going through a difficult time is this: NEVER GIVE IN. Fight with all your might to keep going,” he said.

The broadcaster thanked fans and friends alike for “all the love and support” adding that “your kind words mean more than you will ever know, and always remember…live every day the best you can and just keep going. You can do this.”

He also promised that he will be onstage at the Stand By Me: Bob Harris – A Celebration of Life In Music tribute concert in December at the Royal Albert Hall which will honour the broadcaster.

“I am still working and looking way into the future,” he said.

In June he announced he was leaving his Radio 2 shows, which he described as being “one of the hardest decisions of my life”.

Harris, who has had a broadcasting career spanning almost 56 years, took over Sounds Of The 70s from Johnnie Walker in 2024.

He has also had roles on Radio 1, BBC Six Music and television, including his celebrated tenure on the award-winning BBC music show Old Grey Whistle Test during the 1970s.

Harris has long been a passionate advocate for country, folk, Americana and singer-songwriters and introduced generations of listeners to emerging talent alongside established stars.