BBC Radio 2 DJ Tony Blackburn has been forced to pull out of his radio show and postpone his Sounds of the 60s live gigs next week due to an ongoing health issue.
The much-loved veteran presenter was replaced by stand-in Johnnie Walker on Saturday morning, with regular listeners left puzzled by the switch-up.
Tony, 80, took to social media to reveal he's been advised to rest by his doctor as he explained his sudden absence.
He wrote on Twitter : "Hello folks. Just to let you all know, I've had a little recurrence of the chest infection I had a few weeks ago.
"My Dr has told me off for not taking some time to recover properly so I am having a break from the radio this weekend and, sadly, I have had to postpone the Sounds of the 60s shows at Swindon and Redhill next week too.
"New dates are already in the diary though and I really do hope to be back with you soon."
Followers took to the comment section to wish him a speedy recovery.
One user commented: "Your health comes first. Took me ages to finally realise this and take time off. Please let your body heal."
"Wishing you well. You've brought joy to so many throughout a fantastic career. Take care," another said.
One fan posted: "Sending you Best Wishes for a speedy recovery. Take It easy and rest. The doctor knows best."
A few hours later, he returned to Twitter to thank fans for their support and said he will 'recover properly'.
"Just want to thank you all for your kind words, I am listening to the doctors and this time I will recover properly, which I didn’t do before," he said.
"To those of you who have booked to see the show next week I’m so sorry but we are arranging new dates and your tickets will be OK."
Listeners tuned in to Tony's much-loved Saturday morning show were greeted by the sounds of Johnnie Walker this morning.
Walker announced at the start of the show that Tony was 'having a well earned rest this weekend.'
"It's my pleasure to be with you the next couple of hours, so let's start the normal way," continued Johnnie before pressing play on the first track of the two hour show.
Tony was the first-ever BBC Radio 1 DJ when it officially launched in 1967.
He has since worked for many broadcasters including Capital London and Classic Gold Digital.
* Follow Mirror Celebs on Snapchat, Instagram, Twitter and Facebook.
