Paul O’Grady is taking a break from his BBC Radio 2 show to self-isolate amid the coronavirus pandemic.
The 64-year-old star is in the "high risk" category after suffering three heart attacks in the past, so he is taking heed of the government advice for those with previous heart issues and Paddy O’Connell is taking over his show on the airwaves for the time being.
Paddy reassured listeners that Paul is "as fit as a flea" but is following advice, and he played an answer phone message from Paul on the show.
The ‘For the Love of Dogs’ star said: "I’d only been back for one show after an absence and I’m off again.
"But I’m one of these people who falls into the category of ‘underlying health problems’ and that’s because I’ve had heart attacks.
"I’ve been strongly advised to self-isolate, so that’s exactly what I’m doing. I’m down in the wilds of Kent with a very lively five-week-old puppy, so I’ve got my hands full and I’ve got plenty to do, and I’d just like to say to everybody else who’s self isolating – good luck and keep healthy and look after yourselves.
"And a big thank you to everyone in the NHS for all they’re doing.
"I’ll speak to you all when all this is finished, so take care and once again Paddy, thanks very much and have a good show."
A message on the Radio 2 Twitter account added: "We wish Paul all the best. We think he’ll be kept nice and busy with little Nancy."
Paul – who lives in Kent – previously had 12 stents fitted following his second heart attack, and he joked in 2013 that his heart is "more tin than flesh".
Paul O’Grady taking break from Radio 2 show to self-isolate
