Magician and entertainer Paul Daniels has been diagnosed with an incurable brain tumour, it has been revealed.

Daniels, 77, rose to fame through BBC series "The Paul Daniels Magic Show", which ran from 1979 to 1994.

A statement on his website said: "We can confirm that one of our greatest magicians and entertainers of all times, Paul Daniels, has sadly been diagnosed with an incurable brain tumour.

"On behalf of Paul, Debbie and their families, we thank you for your kind concerns and support at this sad time and ask that their privacy continues to be respected. There will be no further comments at this time."

In 1983, Daniels was presented with the prestigious "Magician of the Year" Award by the Hollywood Academy of Magical Arts.

Born in Middlesbrough in 1938, he is the only magician in the history of the London Magic Circle to receive all three of their top awards.

Paul Daniels with his wife Debbie McGee. Credit: PA

In addition to performing magic, Daniels hosted quiz shows including Every Second Counts, Odd One Out and Wipeout.

Daniels married his first wife, Jacqueline, in 1960. They have three sons together.

He wed second wife, on-stage assistant Debbie McGee, in 1988.