2 weeks ago
2
BBC radio veteran John Spencer-Barnes issued a health update online (Image: BBC)
A beloved BBC broadcaster has once again found himself at the centre of concern and support as he undergoes another hospital operation.
Taking to X, formerly known as Twitter, John Spencer-Barnes, 63, posted an update to his concerned followers online. He joked: “I had nothing better to do today so I decided to check into Burnley General Hospital for an operation. I’ll see you on the other side.”
The post quickly drew an outpouring of messages from fans. One replied, “Hope all goes well” as another added: “Speedy recovery John!”
A third joked: “If you want some grapes and a bottle of wine sneaked in I’m only 15 minutes away from Burnley. Hope all goes well.”
John’s latest health update comes just months after what he described as a “terrifying” surgery. During that period, he also grappled with deeply personal news that he chose to keep private.
I had nothing better to do today so I decided to check into Burnley General Hospital for an operation.
I’ll see you on the other side. pic.twitter.com/WeJUs0l3sR
Reflecting on that challenging time, he told his followers: “I’ve had some news which has devastated me and has been very hard to process...To make matters worse I’m going into hospital tomorrow for an operation which is terrifying me.”
Despite these struggles, John returned to work shortly after, expressing his happiness to be back on air at BBC Radio 5 Live. In August John - best known for reading news bulletins across local BBC radio stations and Radio 5 Live - revealed that he had been awaiting surgery, which he said was "terrifying" him.
He told his X followers: "I’ve had some news that has devastated me and has been very hard to process. I can’t elaborate to respect the individual’s privacy."
He continued: "To make matters worse, I’m going into hospital tomorrow for an operation which is terrifying me. I’m not my usual optimistic self right now."
The broadcaster has received an outpouring of support online (Image: X/John Spencer-Barnes)
Invalid email
We use your sign-up to provide content in ways you've consented to and to improve our understanding of you. This may include adverts from us and 3rd parties based on our understanding. You can unsubscribe at any time. Read our Privacy Policy
John took to X on August 27 to share a health update and confirm his return to work. He wrote: "I’m at BBC Radio 5 Live reading bulletins over the next couple of weeks. It’s really good to be back."
John has not yet shared any further details of his personal situation or the reason behind his surgery. However, in an update posted on X on Thursday (August 15), he revealed the surgery had been postponed due to an infection.
He said: "Thank you for so many kind messages about my surgery which was due to take place today. The procedure has been delayed as I have an infection that needs to be sorted first."
English (US) ·