The eponymous man behind Andrew Marr's History of the World and The Andrew Marr Show has suffered a stroke, the BBC reports.

According to a statement made by the institution, Marr's stroke occurred yesterday (9th Jan.), "The hospital confirmed he has had a stroke. His doctors say he is responding to treatment." He has presented the Radio 4 show 'Start the Week' since 2002, broadcasts of which will be continuing until his recovery, as well as broadcasts of the Andrew Marr Show. 

Married to fellow journalist, Jackie Ashley, they have three children, and as the statement said: "His family have asked for their privacy to be respected as he recovers." Adding, "His colleagues and the whole BBC wish him a speedy recovery."

Now aged just 53, he began his career back in 1981 as a journalist in The Scotsman before heading to London as a correspondant. By 1986 "He was part of the team which launched The Independent... later becoming its editor."

Plenty of people have expressed their sympathy via Twitter. John Prescott said: "Terrible to hear Andrew Marr has had a stroke. Pauline and I send all our very best wishes to Andrew and @jackieashley" and Salman Rushdie said "So sorry to hear about Andrew Marr's stroke. All the best to him and his family and here's to a full and speedy recovery."