DAVID Dimbleby will miss Question Time for the first time in 15 years after being injured by a bullock.

The 71-year-old presenter was loading a bullock onto a trailer at his home in Polegate, near Eastbourne, when he was briefly knocked unconscious by the animal.

He was taken to Eastbourne District General Hospital and a cut in his head stitched last night.

Speaking from his hospital bed he said: “I haven't missed a Question Time in over 15 years. Trust my wife's bullock to take me out. I'll be giving bullocks a wide berth in future.”

Radio 4's Today programme presenter and Mastermind quizmaster John Humphrys will present tonight's edition of the flagship political programme.

The BBC spokesman said: “David is recovering well. He attended hospital yesterday, but as he received a head injury, he is staying there for observation. This is just as a precaution, which is not unusual for a patient suffering concussion, and he should return home shortly.

“David would like to thank the staff at the hospital and he looks forward to returning to Question Time next week”.