Out-of-action hospital lifts lead to cancellations

Hospital appointments have been cancelled or rearranged after two lifts were left out of action for two months.

Bedford Hospital apologised for the "continued disruption" caused by the "unexpected fault", discovered in Beeden House during routine maintenance in April.

It said it had been working with patients in its cardiology, ear, nose and throat and audiology departments "to find the best individual solution".

Some appointment had been moved to the Luton & Dunstable Hospital, about 22 miles (35 km) away. For people unable to walk up stairs, clinics have repositioned to other areas, the hospital said.

One lift could be operational by the end of August, with the second hoped to be fixed by September.

Cathy Jones, the hospital's chief operating officer and deputy chief executive, said she was "very sorry" for the continued disruption.

"We have had to rearrange or cancel a number of appointments," she said.

The hospital was working with patients "to find the best individual solution, and ensure they continue to receive the care they need", Ms Jones added.

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