U.S. film star Patrick Swayze has thanked members of a Scottish fan club for the kind words they have offered since he was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer.

Best known for his roles in the films The Outsiders,Dirty Dancing, Ghost and Road House, as well as the U.S. television miniseries North and South, Swayze was recently diagnosed with the disease and has been undergoing treatment.

Word of his condition has sparked an outpouring of support from around the world.

The Scotsman.com said the 55-year-old actor has expressed his appreciation to his Lothians-based fan club.

Patrick has been in contact with us here at the club to tell us how much your love and support means to him, said Margaret Howden, who coordinates the group from her Dalkeith home. He hopes to be back at work in June.