BBC newsreader Jane Hill reveals secret breast cancer battle following six months absence

BBC newsreader Jane Hill has revealed the reason she’s been off air for the last six months is because she has been battling breast cancer.

Shortly before returning to screens to present News at One on 22 May, the anchor took to Twitter to say that it was a “big day” for her.

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“On air for the first time since November,” she wrote before making a joke about UK politics. “Still... 6 months out of the newsroom... that's been plenty of time to sort Brexit, right...?”

Later, she told her followers that she hadn’t been to the BBC studios in so long that her security pass had been cancelled and she almost didn’t make it into the building.

Her comeback appeared to thrill fans who replied in their droves, sending Hill their well-wishes.

The news took many by surprise, with author Emma Kennedy saying: “Oh Jane! I had no idea. I'm so sorry. But very glad you’re on the mend.”

Chris Cook, BBC News Creative Director, praised Hill’s “sure-footed and excellent return,” before adding that the love she’s received since returning is “deserved.”

Elsewhere, actor Sanjeev Bhaskar wrote, “Great to have you back Jane and that you’re feeling better. You haven’t missed much, nothing’s changed.”

Fellow reporter Sarah Campbell gushed that it was “so so lovely” to have Hill back on the team as it “hasn’t been the same without [her].”

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Responding to the messages, Hill posted: “Overwhelmed by so many lovely back-to-work messages.

“I just want to say that my return wouldn’t have been possible without our NHS. Sending love & thanks to the numerous @NHSuk staff who spotted my breast cancer, treated it, and continue to look after me. Thank you all.”