17/06/2013
NEWS STORY
Legendary British Formula One commentator Murray Walker has been diagnosed with cancer.
The illness came to light after the 89-year-old suffered a fall in which he broke his pelvis.
"They've caught it incredibly early," he told the BBC. "It's treatable, the doctors say my condition is mild and I'm very hopeful."
Birmingham born Walker began his career in advertising, having previously served in the army during which time at one stage he commanded a Sherman tank.
The son of a former motorcycle racer - his father Graham rode for the works Norton team - Walker started covering motorcycle racing and hillclimbs in 1948. He subsequently covered other disciplines in motorsport before moving on to Formula One in 1978.
His passion, excited commentary and 'Colemanballs' have become the stuff of legend, and it is no surprise that F1 drivers joined fans on Twitter to wish the Englishman a speedy recovery.
"Racing fans ,millions of them, all wishing Murray Walker best wishes for speedy recovery," tweeted Nigel Mansell. "Family send their love get well soon Murray."