It is no wonder Diana Young broke down in tears when doctors told her they would have to cancel her operation for a fifth time.

The former care worker needs painful scar tissue removed from her bowel but in the latest disappointment she was told by hospital bosses no bed was available for her.

Following an investigation by The Argus Mrs Young will be able to have her operation carried out at the hospital of her choice.

But what would have happened if our reporters hadn't intervened?

Why did a bed suddenly became available on the eve of our story breaking?

The shortage of beds in Britain's hospitals is an all too common modern malaise.

Horror stories of patients lying on stretchers in hospital corridors are no longer confined to countries in the developing world. Our hospitals are underfunded and understaffed.

While statistics are demoralising, it is individual tales, such as that of Mrs Young, which really hit home. Let's hope they hit 10 Downing Street too.