Monty Python star Terry Jones diagnosed with dementia

The star of Monty Python, Terry Jones, has been diagnosed with dementia.

His diagnosis was revealed on the same day BAFTA Cymru announced he would be given a special award for outstanding contribution to film and television at a ceremony next month.

A spokesman for the comedian said: "Terry has been diagnosed with Primary Progressive Aphasia, a variant of Frontotemporal Dementia.

"This illness affects his ability to communicate and he is no longer able to give interviews".

The cast of Monty Pyton (L-R) Eric Idle, John Cleese, Terry Gilliam, Michael Palin and Terry Jones Credit: Reuters

Reacting to the Bafta award, he said: "Terry is proud and honoured to be recognised in this way and is looking forward to the celebrations."

Terry Jones was born in Colwyn Bay and has gone to write and direct dramas, present documentaries, compose operas and write short stories.

However the 74-year-old is best known for co-directing Monty Python with co-star Terry Gilliam, and directing two further Monty Python films - Life of Brian and The Meaning of Life - co-starring John Cleese and Michael Palin.

Hannah Raybould, Director of BAFTA Cymru, said: "We are... very much looking forward to celebrating the work of Terry Jones during the ceremony with a look back at his work from 1969 to the present day."