The Percutaneous Tibial Neuromuscular Stimulation unit (PTNS] will be used by the Continence Advisory Service clinic, which is held weekly at the hospital.

Chair Mike Perry said: "The League had no hesitation in granting £6,000 for this unit when members heard that over nine million people in the UK suffer from bowel or bladder problems. However, only four million seek help due to its sensitive nature."

Overactive bladder is a prevalent and challenging problem affecting 16 per cent of the adult population.

Symptoms can dramatically affect an individual's quality of life and remains largely a hidden problem, with many patients feeling too embarrassed or ashamed to admit they have symptoms.

Some do not realise that continence symptoms can be cured or improved with professional help and advice.

Treatment consists of minimal invasive therapy which can be administered at the Ilkeston hospital as an alternative treatment option for patients who have not responded to initial treatment.

Consultant Mr C A Maxwell-Armstrong DM expressed his thanks for the League's gesture: "It will enable patients to be treated without the need for surgery. The procedure is only the third such facility in the UK, after Bradford and Norwich."

The Continence Advisory Service provides clinics throughout Southern Derbyshire and operates an open referral system meaning that members of the public are able to refer themselves. For confidential advice and appointments please telephone 01332 861198.

Pictured, Charles Maxwell-Armstrong DM FRCS with clinical nurse Helen Graves of the Continence Clinic at Ilkeston Hospital