Michael Palin says lockdown has been like a ‘huge doctor’s note’ after open heart surgery

It had not affected his general fitness until earlier last year, he said.

“Recently, though, I have felt my heart having to work harder and have been advised it’s time to have the valve repaired, ” he wrote on his website

According to the NHS, a leaking mitral valve – known as mitral regurgitation – can cause dizziness, breathlessness, tiredness and chest pain, and can potentially lead to an irregular and fast heartbeat, high blood pressure and heart failure.

The star since the surgery has enjoyed long walks on Hampstead Heath and spending time with friends.