A long-awaited report into the practices of former NHS gynaecologist Daniel Hay has revealed significant failings in patient care that contributed to severe physical harm. The review, commissioned by the Gynaecology Review Steering Group and published on Wednesday, examined Mr. Hay's work at University Hospitals of Derby and Burton NHS Foundation Trust between 2015 and 2018. The investigation found that his risky practices and clinical shortcuts resulted in two women suffering severe physical harm and three experiencing moderate physical harm, with the report noting only "good fortune prevented further harm."

The panel reviewed 325 patients treated by Mr. Hay during the specified period, building upon an earlier assessment of 58 women conducted in 2019. The investigation identified numerous clinical deficiencies, including Mr. Hay's failure to take complete patient histories, omission of pre-operation scans, and inadequate documentation. His paperwork was described as "not of an acceptable standard," and he frequently failed to properly explain procedures or discuss risks and benefits with patients, leaving many feeling unsettled and uninformed about their treatment options.

Among the most concerning findings were instances where women underwent hysterectomies without proper consent or understanding of alternative treatments. The report indicated that some patients were made to feel that surgical removal of the womb was their "only option" when less invasive alternatives might have been available. This had profound consequences for women who dreamed of starting families, with the report noting the procedures "adversely affected" their mental health, relationships, and employment.

Following the report's publication, the NHS trust issued a formal apology, expressing being "truly sorry" to the women who received care "below the standards expected." The investigation has prompted recommendations to expand the review to include cases from 2012 to 2015, focusing on major and intermediate gynaecology surgeries. A criminal investigation into Mr. Hay's conduct remains ongoing as the healthcare system confronts the systemic failures that allowed these practices to continue unchecked for years.

Shed Seven, the Yorkshire Britpop legends, have announced a special one-off summer 2026 performance at Halifax's Piece Hall to celebrate the 30th anniversary of their landmark 1996 album 'A Maximum High'. The band will deliver a full album performance followed by a second set of greatest hits during the Live At The Piece Hall concert series on June 6. This Halifax date will represent Shed Seven's only headline show of summer 2026, making it a particularly significant event for both the band and their dedicated fanbase.

The anniversary concert will feature special guest performances from Seb Lowe and The Guest List, adding to the celebratory atmosphere. Tickets for this exclusive event are scheduled to go on general sale at 10am on Friday, October 24, available through major ticketing platforms including Ticketmaster, Live Nation, and the Piece Hall's official website. The band's return to the Halifax venue follows their previous 2021 performance at the historic courtyard, establishing a continuing relationship with the West Yorkshire location.

'A Maximum High' represented a defining moment in Shed Seven's career, reaching the UK top 10 and selling more than 250,000 copies while spawning five Top 40 singles. Band frontman Rick Witter expressed enthusiasm for the upcoming celebration, stating the band is 'looking forward to giving A Maximum High the birthday party it deserves' and noting particular excitement about 'revisiting some of the songs we haven't played for decades.' The event promises to attract fans from across the country for what organizers describe as a 'one night only' celebratory event.

Shed Seven joins a diverse lineup of artists scheduled for the 2026 Live At The Piece Hall series, including Embrace, Ethel Cain, David Gray, Billy Ocean, Opeth and The Ks. The band's upcoming schedule also includes appearances at the Isle Of Wight Festival in June, featuring headliners Lewis Capaldi, Calvin Harris and The Cure, followed by a supporting performance for Richard Ashcroft at Englefield Estate in Berkshire as part of the Heritage Live series in July. Nicky Chance-Thompson MBE DL, CEO of The Piece Hall Charitable Trust, emphasized the significance of hosting these 'Yorkshire heroes' back at the venue for this milestone celebration.