In the UK, due to cancer reorientation programmes by the NHS, radical cystectomies happen only in regional cancer centres. But there is no reason why simple cystectomies cannot take place in district general hospitals, often much closer to patients and relatives. This paper will be of interest to consultant surgeons and trainees. It is a retrospective study of 139 cases. The main indications were spinal cord injury (32%) and radiation damage to the bladder (21%). Common complications were prolonged ileus and pyelonephritis.