Lorraine star issues health update as they return to ITV show after operation

On Monday morning, ITV viewers saw host Christine Lampard, who is currently covering for Lorraine Kelly, welcome back one familiar face to the show.

When the episode kicked off, the 46-year-old headed over to speak to Dr Hilary, who recently shared what it's like working with Lorraine, as she joked that it felt as though she should be giving him a round of applause.

She commented: "Dr Hilary is back in the studio, it's so lovely to see you because you've been off, you've had a little op."

Dr Hilary explained that five weeks ago, he had a hip replacement, although he reiterated it's good to be back with his 'extended family' on the ITV show.

While Christine commented on how well he looked, he replied, "I'm feeling great! It's such a good operation, and I think people tend to leave it too long.

"They're in a lot of pain for a long time with limited mobility, which means that their muscles become weaker. So, rehabilitation takes longer. I was really lucky to have this done on the NHS. Wonderful treatment."

Dr Hilary told Christine that he had a spinal anaesthetic, which meant he was semi-conscious during the procedure, which took around an hour and a half.

He continued: "I was up that evening, was doing stairs the next day and then home the next day.

"I did my rehab like a good patient, like a good doctor should be, and I'm all singing and all dancing again."

Questioning how he's feeling now, five weeks later, Dr Hilary shared he's doing well.

He added: "Great! It's very important to do your physiotherapy afterwards, but I was fairly fit before. I just had some discomfort in the joints, and I've done a lot of activity over the years, so they were worn out."

Dr Hilary shared that he's being cautious at the gym at the moment but will be able to get back to normal activies soon.

Lorraine is available to watch on ITVX.