NHS bosses are reminding people that it is not too late to get the jab, which can help protect them from the flu and the complications it can cause. Figures released by NHS England show that 28.1 per cent of over-65s across Worcestershire have not had their jab.

The number of urgent operations being cancelled is the highest on record, with repeat cancellations for some seriously ill patients. Data from NHS England shows 4,093 urgent operations were cancelled last year as the health service came under intense pressure – a 27% rise from 3,216 in 2014.