PAUL Daniels has been diagnosed with an incurable brain tumour, his family have confirmed.

The Daniels family, who live in Wargrave, broke the news earlier today that the 77-year-old has been taken ill.

Regarded by many as one of the nation's finest magicians, he has been a prominent figure on the British entertainment scene for many years.

A message on his website read: "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."