Bruno leaves hospital and thanks fans for support

Boxing veteran Frank Bruno has thanked fans for their support after he was discharged from hospital following treatment for exhaustion.

The 50-year-old former heavyweight champion was reported to have checked into a private hospital earlier this month after undertaking a gruelling fitness regime for a string of public appearances.

Bruno, who was sectioned under the Mental Health Act in 2003, asked for “privacy” after being discharged to help with his recovery.

In a brief statement yesterday, Bruno’s agent Dave Davies said: “Frank left the medical unit today and staff were very happy with his progress.

“Frank’s very grateful for all the good wishes he received.

“We’re asking for the media to give Frank privacy so he can continue with his recuperation.”

Mr Davies added that Bruno’s family did not plan to make any further comment.

Bruno, who retired from boxing in 1996, did an interview for ITV’s Piers Morgan’s Life Stories last month, which was screened last night.

He won a world title at the fourth attempt when he outpointed Oliver McCall over 12 rounds in 1995 to take the WBC crown. However, Bruno left boxing after failing to retain his title against Mike Tyson in 1996.