RECENTLY my 90-year-old mother, Winifred, went to Blackpool for a week's convalescence to give my brother, Barry, her full-time carer, respite. They live in Burnley and he had not had a break for almost three-and-a-half years,

Within 24 hours of her arrival at the care home, she fell from a chair in her room and suffered bruised muscles, burst blood vessels in her legs and shock. Another older brother went to collect her and brought her to my home. However, due to her extreme pain and stiffness, we drove immediately to Whiston Hospital. The care and attention which followed was absolutely fantastic.

Doctors, nurses, physiotherapists, occupational therapists and social workers all worked fast and effectively to treat and comfort her. They worked together to try to get her mobile and well over the three days in which they assessed her in the Observation Ward.

Social Services at Whiston also worked hand-in-glove with the Burnley Social Services and a full care package on her return to my brother has been arranged.

As I suffer from osteoarthritis and polymyalgia myself I am unable to give him support in moving and lifting her. My brother is an angel and has even come down to give mother his undivided attention.

I thank Whiston Hospital, the doctors, the nurses and the support services. What a tremendous team the Accident and Emergency services and the observation wards have. Mother was cared for like a queen 24 hours a day with a full follow-up service.

Thank you all for the remarkable given to mymother. What a wonderful hospital, with wonderful staff. How lucky I am to live with the knowledge that I live under the wings of this most wonderful service.

Barbara McNicholas, Whiston