I WAS told by the ambulance crew when they collected me after a minor incident in Castle on March 26 that I was to be taken to Leighton Hospital and it was with some trepidation that I prepared myself for the treatment, which I believed would be bare, scant and delivered in a casual way.

I was greeted by members of the hospital staff at the door of the accident and emergency department and received attention in a warm and thorough manner. And almost immediately examined and admitted to the assessment ward, where I stayed for three days. This was a eye opener for me after having been only too willing to accept the details that I had either read in the national press or had seen on the television, as to the dreadful state of our health service. Leighton Hospital is a shining example of the success of the NHS, and all the staff there were extremely helpful.

When the first mealtime arrived it was again with some slight worry I awaited my first meal but I was delighted with all the food that I received. And not the paltry portions I believed that would arrive, having taken notice of the media. Although the staff were extremely busy the whole time, they always managed to find that extra time whenever a patient asked for something.

It was almost a pleasant experience visiting hospital as a patient. So many thanks to all the staff at our wonderful local establishment.

MATTHEW DICKINSON

Trinity Terrace, Castle