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BBC star John Spencer-Barnes has been flooded with support from fans after he shared a candid message online about undergoing a “terrifying” surgery while also dealing with “devastating” personal news. 

John is well known for reading news bulletins across BBC radio stations, along with his work on Radio Five Live

BBC radio star John Spencer-Barnes has revealed he's dealing with a 'devastating' personal tragedy
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BBC radio star John Spencer-Barnes has revealed he's dealing with a 'devastating' personal tragedyCredit: Getty
The sad news comes as he's about to undergo a 'terrifying' operation
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The sad news comes as he's about to undergo a 'terrifying' operationCredit: Twitter
John is best known reading news bulletins across a variety of BBC radio stations
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John is best known reading news bulletins across a variety of BBC radio stationsCredit: Twitter

He briefly tried his hand in front of the camera too, covering a few segments for BBC Hereford and Worcester, but admitted he preferred the anonymity of working on the radio. 

Alongside this, John also pursues his passion for history. 

“I spend my life as a jobbing historian and freelance newsreader either inside historic houses or radio studios,” he wrote of his current career on X, formerly Twitter.

As John’s social media shows, he’s usually very optimistic about life, sharing behind-the-scenes looks at his work for the BBC as well as his personal adventures. 

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Unfortunately, the radio star shared that he has not been feeling like his usually happy self this week after finding himself in the middle of two very emotional situations. 

John shared that he was dealing with some very sad news in his personal life. 

“I’ve had some news which has devastated me and has been very hard to process. I can’t elaborate to respect the individual’s privacy,” he said. 

Continuing, John added: “To make matters worse I’m going into hospital tomorrow for an operation which is terrifying me.

“I’m not my usual optimistic self right now,” he concluded. 

John’s fans were quick to flood the comment second with replies and well wishes, though. 

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“Wishing you all the best, John,” one fan swiftly replied, while another told him to “chin up,” before saying, “good luck and it’ll all be better!”

“Sorry to hear this, John. All my well thoughts and best wishes,” a third commented.

Adding another message of support, a fourth fan wrote: “Praying for you. I had an experience last week where, out of the blue, someone very close was diagnosed with cancer and is now in hospital awaiting urgent surgery. Praying for you and the person you referred to.”

Another kind fan said: “Thinking of you John and wishing you the very best for tomorrow. Think only of yourself right now and remember the positive of going to the best place for what you need. Take care.”

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“Sending you lots of prayers and virtual hugs,” a sixth added.

John has not yet shared any further details of his difficult personal situation or the reason behind his surgery, which is taking place today (Thursday 15).

John had not shared any further details about his operation
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John had not shared any further details about his operationCredit: Twitter
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