'Don't wait to get checked out' say West Country doctors as cancer referrals fall by 75 per cent in Coronavirus era

NHS bosses are warning that people are putting their lives at risk by not seeking help for symptoms that could be the early signs of cancer.

The number of referrals from GPs to hospitals in the West Country has fallen sharply since the outbreak of the coronavirus, and doctors are worried that thousands of new cancer cases could be missed as the pandemic means people are failing to get checked out.

Wild food expert Thom Hunt, who stars in the Channel 4 TV series Three Hungry Boys, was diagnosed with bowel cancer aged 27.

He says it is more important than ever that people get checked if they have any concerns.

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Some private hospitals are now accepting patients referred for cancer checks in order to free up space in NHS hospitals.

Plymouth's Nuffield Hospital, across the road from the main Derriford Hospital site, is carrying out chemotherapy and some outpatient appointments.

Blood tests and other non-urgent services are being carried out at Home Park, Plymouth Argyle's stadium.

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In order to limit exposure and keep patients and staff safe, GP practices in Devon are setting up dedicated sites where patients who have, or may have, Covid-19 can be assessed and treated for the virus away from other patients.

GPs are also offering online consultations where possible.