BBC'S "Voice Of The Boro" Ali Brownlee has revealed that he is battling bowel cancer.

The announcement was made on BBC Tees on Friday morning by Lisa McCormick who has been presenting the breakfast show over the past few weeks during Ali's absence.

Lisa said in her on air announcement: “As you know, Ali Brownlee has been off for a couple of weeks now and many regular listeners of the programme have been in touch to ask where he is.

"We haven’t been able to offer you much… that is until today.

"Today, I have some news that Ali has asked me to share with you.

The Northern Echo: Ali Brownlee with Boro boss Aitor Karaka when he changed his name by deed poll

Ali with Middlesbrough manager Aitor Karanka

"Ali’s been diagnosed with cancer of the lower bowel. He’s due to start his treatment in the coming weeks so that, naturally, means he’ll be taking some time away from BBC Tees. He’s asked me to share some words with you…"

“When I was given the news about my cancer diagnosis, naturally the size of the battle I have ahead seemed almost overwhelming.

"Then I realised that I am incredibly lucky to have a wonderful family, great friends and colleagues together with the brilliant consultants and staff at James Cook University Hospital….. not forgetting Benjamin the Labrador!

"If anyone can get me back to doing the job I love most, working for BBC Tees, it is the outstanding hospital on my doorstep.

"I am aware that I have to put all my efforts now into the fight I have ahead but my inspiration will always be the hope to be back behind the mic yelling on The Boro and being with the best breakfast team on local radio.”

Tonight he posted a message on Facebook thanking everyone for their messages of support.

He said: Today has been the most inspirational and humbling day of my life with so many kind, thoughtful and uplifting messages.

"I do apologise that I have not been able to reply to everyone individually, but all have made a great impression.

"Thank you so much.

"I know that I have a tough battle ahead, but with your support I am equally sure that my dream of being back commentating on The Boro will be fulfilled."

Speaking this morning, Lisa added: "I’m sure I speak not only on behalf of the breakfast team but also everyone at BBC Tees when I say there’s been something missing from the newsroom in recent weeks.

"Ali’s relentless energy and enthusiasm for life is infectious and those are the qualities which I know he’ll draw strength from as he takes on this challenge with his health.

"Naturally, we send our thoughts and best wishes to Ali and offer our support to him. We hope to have him back in this very chair as soon as he’s fit and well enough to do so. In the meantime, if you would like to send Ali a message, we would be more than happy to pass that on and I know he’ll enjoy reading them."

Dan Thorpe, Managing Editor of BBC Tees, said: “We wish Ali our sincere best wishes as he battles this cancer. We all love working with Ali as much as our audience enjoy listening to him, and we know he’ll be very well supported during this difficult time. We will of course pass on the messages and well wishes which we receive.”

Peter Barron, editor of The Northern Echo, who joins Ali on the breakfast show for the Headline Challenge each morning, called on Boro fans to sing "There's only one Ali Brownlee" at Tuesday's cup match against Everton at The Riverside next Tuesday.