GRANDMOTHER Sheila Ladd has been given another day for her operation the fifth date following four cancellations.

Mrs Ladd, 67, who lives in Old Walcot, was due to have her bladder operation on January 15, but she was told that Great Western Hospital was too busy to fit her in.

Originally she was due to go in on November 3 for the one-day operation.

But it was put back to November 13, and then December 16.

Last week the hospital wrote to the pensioner and informed her of the new date, February 5.

Several members of staff have contacted the Advertiser, complaining about the backlog of patients.

Earlier this month the hospital was forced to shut its doors to non-emergencies because of lack of space.

Officials blamed the situation on an unprecedented rise in emergency cases.

Mrs Ladd said: "Hopefully the operation will finally be done.

"I don't blame the doctors and nurses decisions are made by people a lot higher up.

"I am just looking forward to getting it over with."