Former F1 commentator Murray Walker ‘very hopeful’ after cancer diagnosis

Well-wishers have rallied to support former Formula One commentator Murray Walker after he was diagnosed with cancer.

The 89-year-old said he had been diagnosed with a form of lymphatic system cancer, but added the condition was treatable.

Formula One star Jenson Button told fans on Twitter: “Just heard the news about Murray Walker, Murray is a true fighter… Get well soon matey.”

The Twitter account of the Williams team included a picture of the commentator from 1986 in one of their cars with the message: “Get well soon Murray!”

Walker, who was the voice of motor racing for decades, said: “They’ve caught it incredibly early. It’s treatable, the doctors say my condition is mild and I’m very hopeful.”

He was diagnosed with the illness during tests after breaking his pelvis in a fall last month and will now undergo chemotherapy.

Walker’s enthusiastic delivery, which was described by Clive James as the “trousers-on-fire style”, and his on-air gaffes made him a household name.

A former advertising executive, Walker came up with the slogan “Opal Fruits: made to make your mouth water”, and combined his career with commentating for many years.