Henry Cole is undergoing treatment for colon cancer while continuing to work on television filming. The presenter of The Motorbike Show, Shed & Buried and Junk & Disorderly announced his condition on social media on Wednesday, September 2, and thanked the motorcycle community for its support.

Cole said the cancer is localised and that he had been told it could be treated with surgery. He had his first intravenous chemotherapy session on the same day, while an operation is scheduled for November. He also said that, if events develop as he hopes, he expects to make a full recovery and return around February. That is Cole’s own expectation, not an independently confirmed medical prognosis.

The announcement generated thousands of encouraging messages. Although filming is continuing, all of Cole’s live appearances before Christmas have been cancelled, including his appearance at National Motorcycle Museum Live in October. The dates are expected to be rescheduled.

Live appearances put on hold

Speaking to MCN, Cole said his surgeon suggested moving his two-hour talks to the spring of the following year, rather than expecting him to stand on stage and perform at 100 per cent while recovering. Cole said he was deeply moved by the public response and proud to be part of the motorcycling community.

He also urged people to get checked and seek medical assessment early instead of ignoring possible health problems. Cole stressed the value of talking openly and supporting others. He said Allen Millyard has been hugely supportive, Guy Willison has dealt with the situation through humour, and Fuzz Townshend has been the voice of reason. Cole added that the camera crew he has worked with for many years has continued to look after him.