Sir Cliff Richard revealed today that he was recently treated for prostate cancer after the condition was uncovered during a routine medical assessment.

The 85-year-old singer shared the news during an appearance on ITV's Good Morning Britain, explaining that doctors identified the cancer while he was undergoing health checks required for insurance before an international tour. He said the illness was detected at an early stage and had not spread, allowing treatment to begin promptly.

Sir Cliff said he has now completed treatment and is currently clear of cancer, though he acknowledged there are no guarantees about the future.

"Right now, it's gone," he said. "You can never be certain what may happen, but this experience has convinced me how vital it is for men to be checked."

He described how the diagnosis came as a surprise while he was preparing to travel to Australia and New Zealand. Medical tests revealed the cancer was confined and had not affected his bones or other organs.

The veteran performer used the interview to highlight what he sees as a serious gap in men's healthcare, criticising the absence of a national prostate cancer screening programme.

He said men should not feel embarrassed about discussing their health and urged the government to reconsider its position.

"We need to start treating men as human beings who are just as vulnerable to this disease," he said. "If there's a way to test people early and save lives, I don't understand why it isn't available to everyone."

Sir Cliff was speaking to broadcaster Dermot Murnaghan, who is living with advanced prostate cancer. Murnaghan pointed out that prostate cancer is the most commonly diagnosed cancer in men and remains the leading cause of male cancer deaths in the UK.

The revelation follows comments made by Sir Cliff earlier this year in which he admitted he is becoming increasingly aware of his own mortality and may eventually step back from touring.

He also referenced King Charles, who revealed last year that he was undergoing cancer treatment and recently confirmed that his care will be scaled back after positive progress.

Sir Cliff said he would be keen to support any initiative led by the monarch to promote awareness of prostate cancer and the importance of early diagnosis.

"I've supported many charities over the years," he said. "If the King wanted to lead something like this, I'd be more than happy to be involved."