2001 Word Rally champio🐼n, Richard Burns underwent surgery today in London as he continues his battle against a brain tumour - and according to reports from the doctors treating him the operation was 'very successful'.

Although Burns left hospital last summer and was thought to be doing well, in the last few weeks he has 'had health problems' and as a result specialists treating the Englishman decided to o🔯perate. Furthermore while the first s꧋tatement issued on behalf of him did not elaborate on this, the second one has at least confirmed that the surgery went well.

Burns was forced to pull out of the ಞWales Rally GB in November 2003, after collapsing at the wheel of his car en-route to the event. Since then he has been battling to overcome his illness.

The statement issued - according༒ to the official WRC site - read:

"Since being diagnosed with an astrocytoma - a form of br🌳ain tumour, in November 2003, the 2001 world rally champion has💙 followed a course of chemotherapy and radiotherapy.

"Richard has been recovering very well since leaving hospital last summer however he has had health problems in recent weeks. Further news will be issued folꦇlowing the surgery. The media, friends and fans are asked to respect the family's privacy at this time."

The second statement - issued after the surgery - merely added that 'doctors have described theꦍ operation as very successful'.