Burns sends message to fans: Don't worry - I'm ok.

2001 World Rally champion, Richard Burns is 'doing really well' according to his co-driver and friend Robert Reid.

Burns, who was diagnosed with a brain tumour back in November, was forced to miss the final event of the 2003 World Rally Championship, despite still being in with a shot at the title.

The Englishman, who is now undergoing chemotherapy, has been forced to put his career on hold.

Reid, speaking at the Autosport International show in Birmingham, told Ananova: "I spoke to Richard yesterday and told him I was coming up to the Autosport show and he said 'tell everyone not to worry'.

"He's worried that everyone is worrying about him. He's in remarkably good spirits and doing really well."

Burns was due to race this year with Subaru, however his illness has meant he will sit out the coming season, which begins later this month, with the Monte Carlo Rally.

The Englishman's future in the WRC is unknown.