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Richard Dawkins cancels Australia and New Zealand tour after minor stroke

Dawkins is expected to make a 'full or near full recovery' 

Heather Saul
Friday 12 February 2016 11:49 GMT
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Richard Dawkins is recovering at home
Richard Dawkins is recovering at home (Getty Images)

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Richard Dawkins has been forced to cancel appearances in Australia and New Zealand after suffering a minor stroke.

The controversial atheist writer, 74, fell ill at the weekend before he was due to appear at the Sydney Opera House. His stroke was described as minor and he is expected to make a “full or near full” recovery.

The House said in a statement: “On Saturday night Richard suffered a minor stroke, however, he is expected in time to make a full or near full recovery. He is already at home recuperating.

“This, unfortunately, means Richard will be unable to make his planned Australian and New Zealand tour.

“He is very disappointed that he is unable to do so but looks forward to renewing his plans in the not too distant future.”

A spokesperson for Dawkins could not provide any further details on his recovery, telling The Independent: “I think we would have to leave it at that. He has had to call off the tour to Australia and New Zealand and other engagements that he's got are being handled on an individual basis.”

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