BBC Radio Scotland presenter takes break for cancer treatment

BBC Radio Scotland broadcaster Bryan Burnett has announced that he will be taking a break from his programme to undergo treatment for a rare cancer.

Burnett, 59, who presents the early evening Get it On show told listeners he was diagnosed with appendiceal cancer after having his appendix removed earlier this year.

He said the cancer, while “incredibly rare”, is treatable and he is expected to make a full recovery after treatment which will involve complex abdominal surgery and chemotherapy.

Presenter Grant Stott will fill in while Burnett recovers.

Get it On is a popular evening show which airs on BBC Radio Scotland from 18:00 on weekdays.

It plays requests from listeners which match a theme set each show.

Previously, Burnett presented Brand New Country, a country music show on BBC Radio Scotland for 15 years and has had stints on Radio Clyde and Northsound.

“I’ve experienced the most incredible care and kindness from the NHS staff who have been looking after me. My surgeon is a Get it On listener so I know I’m in good hands,” he said.

“I will really miss the music and the chat when I’m off but our listeners have given me hundreds of great playlists so that will keep me going over the next few months.”

He delivered the news to his listeners directly in an emotional announcement during his live show on Thursday evening.

“I want to take this opportunity to say a massive thank you to all my brilliant producers for all the hand holding and all the encouragement they’ve given me since they found out my news,” he said.

“I’m sure they’ll let you know how I’m doing over the next few weeks”.

Hayley Valentine, director BBC Scotland said: “Bryan is one of our most popular broadcasters on Radio Scotland and I know listeners will join us in wishing him well as he embarks on his treatment.

“We look forward to welcoming him back to the Get it On studio once he’s recovered.”