Ok, so now I'm going to be patient for a week, while my referral is processed by the hospital - although they hadn't got it this morning - who will then send me an invitation to phone and make an appointment.  Seems rather long-winded to me but that's how it is, as explained to me by my GP's very helpful (and patient) receptionist. 

I'm not very good at being patient, never have been, I always want things now!