Facebook diagnosis by Bridgend surgeon for friend

A surgeon potentially saved the life of an old schoolfriend by diagnosing his symptoms for appendicitis on Facebook.

Rahul Velineni, from the Princess of Wales Hospital, Bridgend, saw Peter Ball's status update on his stomach pains and the trouble he was having walking.

He sent the 30-year-old from Cheshire a message telling him he should see a doctor immediately.

By the time surgeons operated, Mr Ball's appendix was already perforated, which could have been fatal.

He has thanked his old schoolfriend for offering crucial advice at the right time.