Doreen Bedford is celebrating the New Year - with a new knee.

The 74-year-old has had successful surgery after a three-year wait highlighted by the Telegraph & Argus.

And just a week after coming out of hospital, her verdict is: "I feel just fine."

Mrs Bedford, pictured, of Rossett House, Otley Road, went into Bradford Royal Infirmary last month for a joint replacement after health chiefs apologised for all the delays.

She is now being supported by her family as she recovers at home.

She said:" The knee is great. The old one used to give way a lot. This is so much better.

"I can't believe I've been in and out in just three weeks.

"The last time I had a knee replaced in 1984 I was in for five months. Things have got so much better.

"I am so grateful to everyone, including the T&A."

Doreen, a widow, will need two sticks to help her walk for a while and is taking antibiotics.

But doctors expect her to make a complete recovery.

Bradford Hospitals NHS Trust admitted there had been a breakdown in communications in Mrs Bedford's case. She had first gone on a waiting list for the operation in 1999.

Gordon Coventry, of Bradford City Primary Care Trust, stepped in to help after learning of Mrs Bedford's long wait.

He said: " We are very pleased that the patient is happy. That is the main thing.

"We shall endeavour to make sure that happens in the future. That is what we are here for."

Current waiting times for knee surgery are down to a year, with a target of nine months expected to be reached by the spring.