Ricky Gervais’ partner has been diagnosed with cancer

The best-selling author has revealed that she received the news last month.

Taking to Instagram, she wrote: "So… I thought I should post something as I’ve had a few people notice I’ve been a bit quiet on here lately.

"About a month ago I was diagnosed with breast cancer - very early stage thankfully & the prognosis is excellent.

"I had a routine mammogram a week before Christmas. I had no symptoms but the brilliant radiographer spotted something iffy & sent me for further tests & eventually a biopsy.

"Since then I’ve had more mammograms, more biopsies and an MRI so they can pinpoint the problem area precisely. It’s been a lot, I’m not going to lie.

"But, my surgery is scheduled for the week after next and I just want to get it over with now.

"I’m getting incredible care and all will be fine but I’m not engaging with much beyond audiobooks & jigsaws tbh. Dr Eric on duty. Nurse Pickle wondering when lunch is."

She met Gervais when studying at University College London in 1982.