BBC’s George Alagiah diagnosed with bowel cancer

BBC News presenter George Alagiah has been diagnosed with bowel cancer.

In a statement released today, the BBC said “George will be off air for a while as he undergoes treatment.

“He is grateful for all the good wishes he has received thus far and is optimistic for a positive outcome.

“George asks that he and his family are given the space and privacy they require whilst he recovers. Our thoughts are with him and his family and we send them our very best wishes during this time.

“Until such time as George is well enough to return to work the BBC News At Six and GMT on BBC World News will be presented as usual by familiar faces from BBC News.”