Cancer ordeal of TV's Magnus Magnusson

Former Mastermind presenter Magnus Magnusson has been diagnosed with cancer, it has been announced. The BBC said the broadcaster was undergoing tests and was in "good fettle".

Today is the journalist, historian and author's 77th birthday. He has been forced to cancel a string of public appearances, including the Cheltenham and Stratford-upon-Avon literary festivals to promote his latest book.

A spokesman for BBC Scotland, where Magnusson's radio and TV presenter daughter Sally has worked since 1984, said they had no further information.

In 2004 he had to undergo emergency abdominal surgery after reportedly suffering a ruptured stomach abscess.

Magnusson, who was born in Iceland but moved to Scotland at an early age, presented the high-brow quiz show for 25 years.

He studied English at Jesus College, Oxford, before launching his journalistic career at the Scottish Daily Express and then The Scotsman.

A veteran BBC presenter, Magnusson coined the catchphrase "I've started so I'll finish" on the quiz show Mastermind which he presented for 25 years.

First recorded in 1972, the show became known for its distinctive theme music and intimidating black leather contestant's chair.

At the height of its popularity, around 22 million viewers tuned in to watch contestants answer questions on obscure specialist subjects and general knowledge.

Magnusson was awarded an honorary knighthood in 1989. He has served as Chancellor of Glasgow Caledonian University since 2002.

A prolific author and noted expert on the Vikings, Magnusson founded and presented the BBC archaeology programme Chronicle from 1966 to 1980. He made numerous other BBC radio and television programmes.