"I have since told everybody about The Horder Centre."
A lifetime of playing various sports left actor Charles Collingwood with troublesome wear and tear in his knee that eventually required knee replacement surgery.
Charles, 81, who is best known for playing Brian in the world’s longest radio serial The Archers, said: “I played a lot of sports and ran around putting a lot of pressure on my hips and knees. I played cricket, squash and hockey - I would hit or kick anything that involved a ball.
“Over the years my hips and knees served me well, but the pain came on a few years ago. I received pain management injections into the knee, which worked for a while, and I carried on with the help of a knee support.
“But just over a year ago, it started to prevent me from walking any distance and I knew I had to get something done. Like a lot of things, I kept putting it off.”
Charles, from Portsmouth, initially saw several consultants in London due to previously having both hips replaced in the city, but was recommended Mr Lee David, Consultant Orthopaedic Surgeon at The Horder Centre, by a friend and former GP due to the high number of knee replacements Mr David has performed.
Charles explained: “I saw Mr David for the first time in January when I went for my consultation at The Horder Centre. I was putting myself into hands that were completely new to me, but we got on very well. It was a delight to know he also loved cricket and rugby!
“I returned for my pre-assessment and again a week before the procedure for my blood test. I was very impressed with the amount of information you receive before the procedure.”
Charles was booked into The Horder Centre for a knee replacement in April. After a three night stay he chose to spend two weeks at The Clavadel, a rehabilitation centre in Guildford, to help relieve any pressure his wife may have felt with managing his recovery at home.
“I have since told everybody about The Horder Centre,” said Charles, "I felt the whole experience was brilliant. Everyone was absolutely charming, from Mr David and his team to the people offering me tea and biscuits in the afternoon. The food itself was delicious.
“When you are in hospital, you can feel vulnerable and your sensitivity is heightened. You are able to ring the bell night or day and I never once felt a nuisance to anyone. At one point, I couldn’t get the newspaper onto my iPad and a lovely member of staff helped me.
“The physiotherapists put you through your paces about 12 hours after the operation and after three days I was discharged.
“The hard yards were done at The Horder Centre and my continued recovery at The Clavel meant that when I did go home, it was easy.
“I am now off the sticks and back on my static exercise bike. I aim to put the resistance of the bike up soon. Mr David is delighted with my recovery.”
We provide outstanding patient experiences
The Horder Centre is an award-winning Centre of Excellence that offers patients a unique therapeutic environment. Specifically designed for orthopaedic surgery, our facilities include a physiotherapy inpatient gym and courtyard gardens designed by clinical experts to enhance recovery. Finance options available.
Read our patient testimonials
Find out what it’s like to be a patient, from the people who matter the most.
