Charlie Bird 'going through a very tough period’ following milestone birthday

After taking some time off, the former RTÉ broadcaster said he is working on another idea to 'extend the hand of friendship' while he still can 

In April Charlie Bird climbed Croagh Patrick to raise funds for two charities which are very close to his heart – Irish Motor Neurone Disease (IMNDA) and Pieta, Ireland’s national suicide prevention charity. Picture: Michael Mc Laughlin

Charlie Bird has shared an update on his health after he marked his 73rd birthday, revealing that he is currently going through a “very tough period” that sees him in tears every day.

After celebrating his birthday, which he did not think he would see this time last year, the veteran journalist and broadcaster took some time off.