BBC journalist Jeremy Bowen has revealed he has bowel cancer after he underwent a test despite showing no symptoms of the illness.

The broadcaster’s Middle East editor declared today he was diagnosed in October after suffering “funny pains” in his leg and back.

He said he underwent a test despite showing no symptoms of the illness.

The 59-year-old is now receiving treatment after he underwent surgery to remove a tumour.

Bowen told BBC Breakfast: “I was diagnosed with it last October. I had some funny pains in my leg and my back, when I was in Iraq.