BBC political editor Nick Robinson has thanked staff at the Royal Free Hospital in Hampstead after successfully having a tumour removed from his lung.

Mr Robinson, who announced in February that he was undergoing treatment for lung cancer, said an operation to remove it had gone well and “normal service will be resumed as soon as possible”.

Writing in a blog on the BBC’s website, the 51-year-old thanked doctors and nurses at the Royal Brompton and Royal Free hospitals for looking after him.

He said: “I am now beginning a course of chemotherapy to try to stop the cancer even daring to think of returning. I’m also working to restore the strength of my voice after the op.

“Many thanks to all the doctors and nurses who have been, and are, looking after me - particularly at the Royal Brompton and Royal Free hospitals.

“Heartfelt thanks too to the many people who have been in touch with their good wishes.”

News of his illness last month sparked an outpouring of messages on Twitter, with Prime Minister David Cameron one of the first to tweet a get-well message.

He said: “Sorry to hear you’ll be off for a few weeks. I wish you well - and a speedy return before the general election.”

Labour leader Ed Miliband tweeted: “Best wishes for a speedy recovery. Look forward to seeing you on the campaign trail soon.”

Mr Robinson, who is married with three children, used the blog to kick-start his return to work and covering the general election with some advice for voters.

His message was: “It’s all about you. Not them. You.”