Broadcaster Gerry Anderson is set to return to the BBC airwaves in the new year after battling ill health, it has been reported.

The 69-year-old told the Irish News he would return to his popular slot on Radio Ulster after a 'rough year'.

Gerry has been missing from his show since December last year.

In February his friend and co-host Sean Coyle told listeners who rang into the Radio Ulster programme that Anderson had been in hospital but was "on the mend".

Speaking to the Irish News, Gerry Anderson said he was bowled over by the get well messages he had received over the last few months.

"I had complicated internal problems that required four serious operations which led to a lengthy recovery period, but I hope to be back some time in the new year, " he said.

"It was a rough year, but I would like to say I was amazed at the reaction of people."

Belfast Telegraph