BBC Radio London presenter Eddie Nestor has announced he is stepping away from his long-running programme after being diagnosed with cancer. The 62-year-old shared the news in a statement posted on social media, in which he wrote: “Greetings. You may have noticed I’ve been a little quieter than usual. Well… this wasn’t quite the June we’d planned. I missed my own brunch and ended up spending Father’s Day and my birthday in hospital. Life has a funny way of rewriting your diary. I’ve been diagnosed with cancer. The good news is that, thanks to an incredible medical team, I’ve now had my first chemotherapy treatment.”
Support from BBC and Family
Nestor continued: “We’re thankful, we’re hopeful and as a family, we’re looking upward and forward. I honestly don’t know exactly what the next few months will look like. I’ll work when I’m able, post when I feel like it and spend the rest of the time concentrating on getting stronger.” However, he said there was “one thing I do know”, then explaining his “greatest source of strength” was his family. Nestor urged his followers not to “feel sorry” for him, adding: “I’d much rather have your prayers, your love, your encouragement and the occasional laugh. That’s the fuel I need.”
Ending his post, he thanked “everyone at the BBC for all your love and support” and those who “had already reached out. Each epic journey begins with a single step. Well, here’s another one,” he added.
BBC London’s Response
In a post shared on Instagram, BBC London wrote: “Our friend and colleague Eddie Nestor has announced that he will be away from Radio London for a period of time while he receives treatment for cancer. Everyone at BBC London sends Eddie and his family our love and support.” Sara David, editor of the station, said: “Everyone at BBC Radio London and all of his loyal listeners are sending Eddie and his family all our support and best wishes.”
It is understood that Nestor is not stepping down – his show is currently being looked after by Jim Davis and other voices from the Radio London team. Nestor, who was awarded an MBE in 2018 for his charity work and services to radio, has been presenting on BBC Radio London since 2002. He is also known for appearing in Casualty and Death in Paradise.
Previous Cancer Battle
In 2007, Nestor was diagnosed with Hodgkin’s Lymphoma and kept a blog of his treatment and reactions at the time. He announced he was in remission in 2012. The presenter has been a familiar voice on the airwaves for over two decades, earning a loyal following among London listeners.
