Bill Oddie says he's been 'very ill' after suffering an 'almost fatal' condition

'Wish me luck,' TV birdwatcher asked fans

Bill Oddie has been suffering from an “almost fatal” condition throughout the summer.

The British TV personality and former member of The Goodies revealed the news to his Twitter followers.

He told them he has been “very ill” with “lithium toxicity”.

“Just so you know, I have been very ill most of this summer. Lithium toxicity. Almost fatal!” he wrote on social media.

“I am still here but very confused about most things! But then aren’t many of us.

He added: “IT fuddles my brain. Confusion. Will I return? I Really dunno. I do hope so. Please wish me luck. XX.”

Lithium is a type of medicine known as a mood stabiliser. According to the NHS, too much of it in the blood can trigger serious side effects, including a loss of appetite and the feeling of confusion.

Oddie – a known conservationist and birdwatcher – first shot to fame as a member of the comedy trio The Goodies.

Earlier this year, his co-member Tim Brooke-Taylor died from Covid-19, aged 79.