First Dates star Merlin Griffiths issues update on ‘long and slow’ recovery after bowel cancer diagnosis

FIRST Dates star Merlin Griffiths has issued an update on his 'long and slow' recovery after his bowel cancer diagnosis.

The TV barman was diagnosed in summer 2021 after doctors discovered a 4.5cm Stage 3 tumour.

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He went on to have an operation to remove it in April this year, and spoke about his life and recovery since during an appearance on BBC Breakfast this morning.

Presenter Jon Kay asked: "Merlin, shall we start with you? How are you doing my friend?"

Merlin replied: "Very well, thank you very much. All things considered. On the road to recovery, it's long and slow but we'll get there."

Sally Nugent then asked him to remind viewers of his story so far, and the First Dates star, who was on the show to raise awareness about the disease, said: "I should have got there earlier but I did get there.

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"I think it's very important that people follow up these symptoms. The sooner you catch it better it is for you."

Merlin was then asked how his family were doing throughout it all and he said: "They're doing very well thank you.

"They have been a rock throughout this. Without the support of my family, what could I have done?"

He also recalled how he broke the news to his young daughter, saying: "I did it very frankly and very honestly. I think much like doctors will speak to patients. You literally have to say the truth as it is.

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"I tried to sweep it under the carpet but I should have taken it more seriously. The initial checks aren't very invasive and are very easy and quick to do."

Merlin was on the show alongside former rugby player Matt Dawson, who is patron for Bowel Cancer UK.

Merlin's appearance on the show comes after he opened up about some setbacks he had had.

The star said he was under doctors' orders to now take it easy and "not to overdo it so active recovery takes a backseat.

He told Metro.co.uk: "So the last six to eight weeks have been quite frustrating, largely having to cool my heels and not being able to do what I’d like to do."

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BBC Breakfast airs daily from 6am on BBC One.