BBC News anchor George Alagiah diagnosed with bowel cancer
BBC News anchor George Alagiah will take a break from the role after being diagnosed with bowel cancer.A statement from the BBC said the 58-year-old would be off-air while undergoing treatment.“He is grateful for all the good wishes he has received thus far and is optimistic for a positive outcome," the statement said.“George asks that he and his family are given the space and privacy they require while he recovers.“Our thoughts are with him and his family and we send them our very best wishes during this time.”Alagiah joined the BBC in 1989 and has been a familiar face on BBC News bulletins for several years. Before becoming a presenter he served the broadcaster as a foreign correspondent and covered events such as the Rwandan genocide.Friends, colleagues and well-wishers left messages of support for the presenter on Twitter.
Support: People left messages for George Alagiah on Twitter
So sorry to learn of @BBCAlagiah's health problems. We all wish him good luck & blessings as he takes them on. A good man and a great pro'.
— Alastair Stewart (@alstewitn) April 17, 2014Sending our love, support and best wishes for a speedy recovery to our wonderful colleague & friend George Alagiah. http://t.co/vCCnugTo8t
— Chris Cook (@chrisckmedia) April 17, 2014
@BBCAlagiah sympathy, and get well again soon
— Glen Oglaza (@glenoglaza1) April 17, 2014
Get well soon George Alagiah, a trusted journalist and presenter.
— John Hudson (@J_hud88) April 17, 2014
@BBCWorld was a pleasure to be interviewed by George Alagiah when in #Helmand #Afghanistan in 2009. Get well soon @BBCAlagiah
— Andy Leigh (@DFIDAndyLeigh) April 17, 2014