HAVING been described as one of the growing band of grumpy old men by my family, it must come as a pleasant surprise for them as it does myself to compliment and praise someone.

My granddaughter and her husband had the misfortune to be involved in a terrible motor accident while on their honeymoon in America - the husband coming off the worst with severe leg injuries.

After three weeks in hospital they were flown back to this country and he was immediately placed in Blackburn Royal Infirmary. Since their return I have been a regular visitor to Ward 7.

I have never had a very high opinion of this country's medical profession, but now I have to admit that my opinion has changed.

I was genuinely amazed by the staff always smiling, cheerful, and treating everyone equally with respect and dignity, always ready to help, qualities that I thought had long disappeared.

As in any other profession I am sure these nurses must have their off days, but then never show it.

They light up the ward with their bubbly enthusiasm and humour.

They are a credit to their profession, and true 'Angels of Mercy.'

J ALLAN (Mr), Rothesay Road, Blackburn.