Bonds on the mend

West Ham United legend Billy Bonds MBE has undergone a successful hip operation at the Horder Centre in Crowborough, East Sussex.

Having made nearly 800 first team appearances in a 24 year playing career, Bonds is the Hammers' record all-time appearance maker.

In his illustrious career he largely managed to avoid injuries, but after beginning to suffer problems around five years ago when walking a few miles became a struggle, he opted to undergo surgery recently

Speaking about his decision to have the operation, he said: "I chose the Horder Centre because a friend of mine had just had an operation there and said it was absolutely brilliant. I can't speak highly enough of it. When I came round after my operation, the first thing I saw were a couple of rabbits dancing in the woodland outside.

"All the staff, from the surgeon to the hall porter were top drawer."

Since the operation, Billy has been recuperating at his home in Chislehurst and says he is looking forward to kicking a ball about with his two granddaughters.

In 2013, Bonds, who was voted by fans into the West Ham United all time XI was awarded the Club's first ever Lifetime Achievement award.

Everyone at West Ham United wishes Billy a continued speedy recovery.