Bath to Bristol cancer op relocation plan shelved

Plans to move specialist gynaecological cancer operations from Bath's Royal United Hospital to St Michael's Hospital, Bristol, have been shelved.

NHS Bath and North East Somerset said the aim was to increase survival rates among patients.

Last autumn more than 4,000 people signed a petition opposing to move.

The proposals have now been deferred after the secretary of state for health asked primary care trusts to review health service alterations.

A statement said: "Further details of the new national approach are expected to be set out shortly.

"It is anticipated that a conclusion will be reached on a preferred way forward in the autumn."