John Edwards is battling a life-threatening heart condition that will require surgery next month and delay his criminal trial again, a court heard today.

The 58-year-old former Democratic presidential candidate is facing trial in North Carolina for allegedly abusing $1million of campaign finances.

But Judge Catherine Eagles delayed the trial until at least March 26 and said he should avoid driving and travel - including to court proceedings.

‘The public has an interest in a speedy trial, and this case has already been continued twice,’ Judge Eagles said on Friday.

‘Ordinarily, I would try to manage something like this. But clearly there are some limitations on Mr Edwards due to real and serious health issues.’

The National Enquirer claimed last month he thought he was dying after a jog when his heart began pounding and he struggled to breathe.

Tags: John Edwards Heart Condition