Comedian Bob Mortimer, who is one half of the madcap duo Vic and Bob, is recovering after a triple bypass operation.
A spokesman for Mortimer confirmed the news: ""Bob would like to thank his consultant and all the nursing staff at the hospital for looking after him so well.
"He now needs several weeks to fully recover, so unfortunately the first leg of the UK tour will be cancelled.
"Bob very much hopes to be fit and well enough to perform the second leg in January next year."
A source revealed that Mortimer underwent a scheduled operation yesterday, after being admitted to hospital on Monday evening.
The source added: “He has been visited by his family and a few close friends, but since the operation the most important thing is for him to rest.”
Mortimer's comedy partner Reeves shared his relief that the operation was a success. He said: "I'm so pleased the operation has gone well and Bob is fixed. Many thanks to the surgeon."
The House Of Fools stars were due to mark 25 years of performing together with the live show kicking off this November. November and December dates for the tour have now been cancelled with the pair hoping to return to the stage in January.
