Corin battles back from brink of death

Actor Corin Redgrave is recovering well after suffering a heart attack that almost killed him.

The 66-year-old political activist collapsed while speaking in support of a travellers' site at a televised public meeting in Crays Hill, Essex, in June. He collapsed and at one point his heart stopped beating.

He was taken to hospital, where he was said to be critically ill. Now Redgrave, who is married to actress Kika Markham, has recovered so well that he may return to work as early as next year. He has suffered some brain damage and occasionally has memory lapses but is able to walk and talk to friends.

Theatre director Bill Alexander said: "Corin seems so much better. His family are rallying around him and I know that he wanted, more than anything, to be home around the people he loves.

"All his friends and colleagues wish him a speedy recovery. He truly is a force for good in this world." Redgrave's management company said: "Though we are being very cautious, we are looking at maybe the New Year as a target for getting Corin slowly back into doing interviews and maybe even considering some work."

The actor, who beat prostate cancer in 2001, reflected on his health a year later, saying: "It certainly makes you think about your life."

Redgrave is part of an acting dynasty that includes his sisters Vanessa and Lynn, daughter Jemma and nieces Joely and Natasha Richardson.