A Kent theatre run starring Loose Women star Lynda Bellingham has been cancelled after news today of her battle with cancer.

The 65-year-old had been set to star in a production of Kay Mellor’s A Passionate Woman at the Marlowe Theatre in Canterbury, but has now been advised to pull out of the national tour.

It has not been revealed what form of the disease she has been diagnosed with.

She said: "I'm devastated not to be able to honour my commitments to the play this year, but having toured many times before, I'm aware of the sheer stamina needed, and I need to prioritise my recovery.

"That said, nothing's going to stop me coming back next year, and I can't wait to be a 'passionate woman'."

Having risen to fame in an Oxo advertising campaign in the 1980s, Ms Bellingham went on to become a familiar face on television.

She has presented ITV's panel show Loose Women, hosts Country House Sunday on ITV and starred in Strictly Come Dancing four years ago.

She was close friends with Nolans singer Bernie Nolan, who died of cancer this month as the pair starred in the stage production of Calendar Girls together.

It is hoped Ms Bellingham will return to Canterbury next year.

Marlowe Theatre director Mark Everett said: "Lynda is well known at The Marlowe and we have sent our wishes to her for a full and speedy recovery.

"I'm devastated not to be able to honour my commitments to the play this year, but having toured many times before, I'm aware of the sheer stamina needed..." - Lynda Bellingham

"We are all disappointed that what was shaping up to be a highly memorable production of this fine play will now not come to Canterbury this year, but we look forward to welcoming it in the future.

"We are making every effort to find a replacement production."

Full refunds are being offered to customers who have booked tickets for A Passionate Woman, which was due at The Marlowe from September 20 to October 5.

Ticketholders will be called by the Box Office or they can phone 01227 787787.