The actor who made Darth Vader one of the most recognised villains of all time has been treated for prostate cancer, it was revealed today.

David Prowse, who found world-wide fame cloaked in a black cape and startling mask in the original Star Wars movies, called Absolute Radio this morning and revealed his condition.

Hoping to raise money for London’s Royal Marsden Hospital, the actor, 73, told the Christian O'Connell Breakfast Show: "I'm involved with the Royal Marsden Hospital appeal because I'm undergoing treatment for prostate cancer, would you believe. I'm having my very last treatment this morning.

"I've had two months' radiotherapy treatment at the Royal Marsden. It's the most fantastic hospital you could ever wish to go to."

Prowse, who was cast for the 1977 Star Wars movie partly because of his 6ft 5in height, told listeners that he now felt “fantastic”.

"The only thing I've had is hot flushes and my wife tells me I'm going menopausal," he said.

"It's amazing what can be done so long as you catch it early.

"Every man over the age of 50 should have a PSA test (a blood test for prostate cancer) and that just gives you some indication of whether you have prostate problems."

Prowse resurrected his ominous Darth Vader for the Eighties sequels The Empire Strikes Back and Return of the Jedi, but James Earl Jones always provided the character’s famously distorted voice.

Before the success of Star Wars, Prowse took the role of the Green Cross Code man, teaching children to stop, look and listen before crossing the road in a long-running TV campaign. He later received an MBE for services to charity and road safety.

He also appeared on comedies The Benny Hill Show and The Two Ronnies.

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