Cancer patients warned of delays

More than 200 cancer patients awaiting treatment in Derby are being warned their appointments will be delayed because of a broken machine.

Derby Hospitals NHS Trust has two linear accelerator machines, which provide radiotherapy treatment.

One of the machines is expected to be out of action until at least 4 October.

Existing patients and emergency cases are being treated, but the trust is warning 227 new patients the start of their treatment will be delayed.

Some patients will be asked to travel to Nottingham instead.

A second machine was also out of operation for 24 hours, but is now working again.

The trust has apologised and set up a helpline on 01332 786411.