COMEDY star Keith Harris pulled out of Hull New Theatre's panto after doctors diagnosed him with cancer and gave him 12 months to live, it has been revealed.
The ventriloquist, who had been due to star in Jack and The Beanstalk last Christmas, has now beaten the disease.
Harris, famed for characters including Orville the Duck, spoke to fans of his battle with the disease on Saturday.
Speaking to the audience at his show in a caravan park in Prestatyn, North Wales, Keith, 66, said: "Some time ago I was diagnosed with a nasty little disease which affects one in three of us.
"That nasty disease is called cancer.
"Well, I'm pleased to say I've beaten it. At one point, they told me I had a year to live but here I am."
The Lancashire-based ventriloquist had been due to co-star with Christopher Biggins in the Hull panto. His role as Farmer Bob was taken by fellow entertainer Bob Carolgees.
