BBC’s Robinson starts work again after lung cancer op

BBC political editor Nick Robinson returned to the General Election fray today — as he revealed an operation to remove a carcinoid tumour had been a complete success.

The broadc aster announced l ast month he was having treatment for lung cancer. He took a “baby step” towards returning to work today, with a blog, post in which he said “normal service will be resumed as soon as possible”.

Robinson, 51, thanked the doctors and nurses who looked after him, particularly those at the Royal Brompton and Royal Free Hospitals.

He wrote on the BBC website: “I am now beginning a course of chemotherapy to try to stop the cancer even daring to think of returning. I’m also working to restore the strength of my voice after the op.

“Heartfelt thanks to the many people who have been in touch with their good wishes.” News of his illness last month led to an outpouring of messages on Twitter, with David Cameron one of the first to send a get well message.

The Prime Minister said: “Sorry to hear you’ll be off for a few weeks. I wish you well — and a speedy return before the general election.” Labour leader Ed Miliband tweeted: “Best wishes for a speedy recovery. Look forward to seeing you on the campaign trail soon.”

Robinson, a father of three, told voters today a General Election is one of those “rare times when your voice counts as much as anyone else’s”.

He added: “You can influence who will run the country for the next five years and, therefore, help shape what sort of country you live in. Rarely has there been a choice so wide or one with an impact which could be so dramatic.”

He added: “Finally, take another look at David Cameron and Ed Miliband. Ask yourself whose values are closer to your own, who you’d prefer to see re pres e nt i ng your c ountr y abroad and who you think has the skills needed to lead.”