Liz Truss has made her first public appearance after stepping down as prime minister with a visit to west Norfolk's crumbling hospital.

The South West Norfolk MP was at Queen Elizabeth Hospital (QEH) in King's Lynn today (November 18) to support calls for a new hospital.

Ms Truss, who recently said she would remain in post until at least the next election, visited the QEH's main operating theatres where 80pc of the supports are failing.

Watton & Swaffham Times: Ms Truss looking at the support props across the hospitalMs Truss looking at the support props across the hospital (Image: QEH)

There are 3,397 steel and timber support props installed – meaning the hospital now has six times more props than beds.

A further 1,501 support props are being installed in operating theatres over an eight-month period to maximise safety.

Ms Truss said: “I was very glad to visit QEH once again and to show my support for a much-needed new hospital.

Watton & Swaffham Times: Ms Truss talking to clinical staff at the QEHMs Truss talking to clinical staff at the QEH (Image: QEH)

"My fellow local MPs and I are of one mind that the situation at QEH is very serious and urgent action must be taken.

"The continuing delay for a decision as part of the new hospital programme is frustrating for patients, staff and the wider community.

"We need facilities that are fit for the future, rather than continually shoring up a hospital that experts have repeatedly said is at the end of its life on a short-term basis.

Watton & Swaffham Times: Ms Truss talking to staff at the QEHMs Truss talking to staff at the QEH (Image: QEH)

"I look forward to a decision from the government very soon.”

QEH’s acting chief executive Alice Webster said: “We were delighted to welcome Ms Truss to QEH once again. She is well-versed in the challenges we face.

“As there is no Plan B for QEH, our overriding concern is on securing funding so that core hospital services can continue to be provided to local people from 2030 and beyond."

Chris Lawrence, chair of QEH said: “Ms Truss has been a stalwart friend and supporter of the Trust and we appreciate the time she spent with us today.

Watton & Swaffham Times: Liz Truss looking at the ongoing failsafe work the main theatresLiz Truss looking at the ongoing failsafe work the main theatres (Image: QEH)

"We were able to explain how our all-important goal is to secure national funding as a new hospital is the only sustainable long-term solution for QEH and the provision of healthcare in King’s Lynn and West Norfolk.

“Our proposed scheme is ‘investment ready’, would bring world-class facilities to local people and help us become the best rural District General Hospital for patient and staff experience.

"It’s what patients, their families, our local communities and our staff deserve.”