A Durham MP has revealed a cancer diagnosis, and thanked the "precious NHS". 

Mary Kelly Foy, Labour MP for Durham City, has been diagnosed with breast cancer following a routine screening, she told Twitter today. 

She underwent an operation yesterday (Thursday, March 14), and is expected to make a full recovery, after taking some time away from Parliament to recuperate. 

Taking to Twitter with the news, Mary Kelly Foy said: "Last month I was diagnosed with breast cancer. It was a huge shock, but thanks to the NHS Breast Screening Service it was diagnosed early and I should make a full recovery. 

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"I had surgery yesterday so, as you can imagine, I will need to spend a short spell of time at home to recuperate. 

"Even though I will not be in Parliament during this time, my work as an MP will continue and my dedicated teams In Durham and Westminster remain on hand to support constituents. 

"I want to thank everyone in our precious NHS for taking care of me and I'd like to encourage women everywhere to make sure they attend their screening - it really could save your life!"