Oddie: '2009 was worst year of my life'

TV presenter Bill Oddie has labelled 2009 as the "worst 12 months" of his life.

Oddie quit his job as host of BBC series Springwatch in January 2009 and checked into hospital later in the year, where he was treated for depression and bipolar disorder.

Speaking to his local newspaper, London's Ham & High, he said: "Basically I thought I had had it, it was that bad.

"The last year was probably the worst 12 months of my life because I suffered from bipolar and terrible depression which began in January and February. This has put pressure on my whole family - especially my wife - and I am just glad I managed to come out of it in time to enjoy Christmas."

Of a possible return to the BBC, he added: "I will have to go back to the BBC and see where we stand. They quite reasonably realised I would not be able to do the normal work, but with any luck I will get back there.

"I am hoping a slight rediagnosis and change of medication will help and I am looking forward to what the future brings and just being normal because, believe you me, I wasn't - it has been a long journey."

The former Goodies star also praised the service he received while in hospital, describing his experience with the NHS as "absolutely splendid".