Stem cell research at Basildon and Southampton helps ex-athletes

Pioneering stem cell operations to help injured athletes are being carried out at Basildon and Thurrock University Hospital.

It is one of only two places in the UK where the surgery is being offered on the NHS.

The operations can prevent arthritis by taking stem cells from the hip and injecting them into a patient's knees.

Former Tottenham footballer Lucy Hudson, 25, from Basildon, has had problems with her knee since the age of 15.

This week she was operated on as part of a ground-breaking stem cell trial.

The surgery is being trialled in Basildon and Southampton.