Secret cancer tests for city star Sir Sean

Published on Monday 16 April 2007 12:16

SIR Sean Connery has been undergoing secret cancer tests on a throat condition that has plagued him for more than 20 years.

The 76-year-old actor checked into a New York clinic two weeks ago after dropping out of a charity event he had been due to host as part of the Tartan Week celebrations.

Last week, the James Bond icon assured fans of a clean bill of health and expressed regret at missing part of the annual celebrations.

It has now emerged that consultants examined potentially cancerous lumps in his throat.

The former heavy smoker has been suffering from throat growths since 1986 and first had some removed after a bout of laryngitis.

They later returned, however, and Connery has had several operations to have them removed and also undertakes annual check-ups to ensure they are not cancerous.

The actor's brother, Neil, also suffers from the condition and their father died from throat cancer aged 69.

Neil Connery said: "Sean was in New York and had his yearly check-up. Despite having lumps on his throat, I'm pleased to say he was given the all-clear."