BBC presenter Andrew Marr is said to be "responding to medication and continuing to progress" following his hospitalisation after suffering what is believed to have been a stroke.

The political correspondant, and host of The Andrew Marr Show, was taken to hospital after falling ill on Tuesday (Jan 8). Marr was well-known for his active lifestyle, especially his commitment to long-distance running, as such the news of his stroke has come as a surprise to many. Fortunately though, a spokesperson for the BBC confirmed earlier today that Marr is in fact on his way to recovery and is now conscious and engaging in conversation with his family, who are remaining at the 53-year-old's bedside while he recovers.

The spokesperson said: "Andrew Marr is responding to medication and continuing to progress. He is conscious and eating. He and his family are touched by all the warm wishes and support flooding in."

The BBC have also confirmed that, despite his absence, the radio and television shows fronted by Marr will continue to run as before. The Andrew Marr Show and his Radio 4 show, Start The Week, will be fronted by different guest presenters in his absence, with journalist Anne McElvoy to front the next edition of his Radio 4 show and James Landale to present this Sunday's episode of TAMS. He is expected to make a full recovery in the coming weeks.