Comedian Rhod Gilbert reveals he has cancer and says he will ‘disappear’ while undergoing treatment

Comedian Rhod Gilbert has revealed he has cancer - and will "disappear for a while" while he battles it.

The Never Mind the Buzzcocks host, 53,  did not disclose what type of cancer he has as he shared the news today, but revealed he is getting treatment at a cancer centre in Wales, of which he is patron.

Rhod said: "So while I never imagined that I would be a patient here, I know better than anyone that I am in the best possible hands.

"The NHS care I’m receiving is incredible. I wouldn't wish this on anyone...but who knows, maybe I'll come out the other end with a new stand-up show and a 40 minute rant about orange squash."

In a message posted on his official Facebook page he continued: "As a proud patron of Velindre Cancer Centre, I’ve trekked the world, hosted chaotic quizzes and star-studded comedy nights.

“I’ve met and made friends with so many inspirational staff, patients and their families. It has been a huge part of my life for the last ten years.

"Thank you everyone for your support over the last few weeks and months (and years). I’ll be disappearing for a while and won’t be commenting further, at least not for now, whilst I focus on my recovery."

The funny man shared a series of pictures in the post - showing him taking part in fundraising activities and undergoing treatment himself at the centre.

Rhod is TV regular, having appeared on Mock The Week, 8 Out of 10 Cats and Have I Got News For You and he was the permanent presenter of Never Mind The Buzzcocks for its final series in 2011.

The Welshman has also hosted his own shows, Ask Rhod Gilbert, Rhod Gilbert's Work Experience and Rhod Gilbert's Teen Tribes.

In 2016, Rhod took over as host on The Apprentice: You're Fired, which he did until just a few years ago.

More recently, he took over from Nick Knowles on DIY SOS.