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Sir David Attenborough's operation to fit a pacemaker has gone well and doctors are happy with his progress, a BBC source has told Mirror Online.

The broadcaster, 87 - who was forced to cancel a tour to Australia next week - is said to be his usual, "lively self" following the the procedure.

"It's a minor procedure but it meant that he cannot go on a 27-hour flight to Australia," said a BBC spokesperson.

"He's very disappointed that he can't fulfil the tour but it's nothing to be alarmed about. He's seeing his doctor now but he's still his lively self."

Earlier today, the BBC confirmed that Sir David was undergoing urgent surgery in London following cardiologist advice.

"We all wish Sir David a full and strong recovery," said Danny Cohen, the corporation's director of television

A statement on the tour organiser’s website said that Sir David hopes to reschedule the A Life on Earth dates shortly.

"Sir David Attenborough is to undergo surgery in London today following advice from his cardiologist that he is in urgent need of a pacemaker," the statement reads.

"It is with regret, therefore, that Lateral Events CEO Simon Baggs announced that the forthcoming sell-out tour of Australia, scheduled to begin in Brisbane next week, has been cancelled."

It continues: "Sir David expressed his extreme disappointment as he said he was very much looking forward to coming back to Australia and he hopes to reschedule his tour in the near future.

"Baggs advised that after Sir David recovers from surgery, discussions concerning a potential rescheduling of the tour can begin."

Earlier this year, Sir David said he would be discussing his six decade career in nature documentary filmmaking, rather than environmental issues.

''I'm not on a proselytising tour," he said.

"On occasions I speak on these issues where it's appropriate and where the subject has come up."