Comedian Bob Mortimer has been forced to cancel the first leg of his UK tour after undergoing a triple heart bypass operation.

The 56-year-old, who lives in Tunbridge Wells and is best known for his work with fellow Kent comedian Vic Reeves, of Charing, near Ashford, is expected to need several weeks to recover.

He hopes to be back on stage in the New Year.

Mortimer’s spokesman Neil Reading said: “Bob would like to thank his consultant and all the nursing staff at the hospital for looking after him so well. He now needs several weeks to fully recover, so unfortunately the first leg of the UK tour will be cancelled.

“Bob very much hopes to be fit and well enough to perform the second leg in January next year.”

Vic and Bob’s tour, due to start next month, marks their 25th anniversary as a double act and is entitled 25 Years Of Reeves And Mortimer: The Poignant Moments.

After the operation, Reeves told the Mirror: “I’m so pleased the operation has gone well and Bob is fixed. Many thanks to the surgeon.”

Mortimer, who lives with wife Lisa and their two teenage sons, Harry and Tom, became a household name, with Reeves, in the 90s presenting comedy quiz show Shooting Stars.

The pair met at a pub in New Cross, London, in 1986 when Mortimer watched Reeves perform and was so impressed with what he saw he approached him afterwards and suggested they work together.

People with tickets for shows in November and December are advised to contact the company they bought them from for a refund.