When you read the letters in the LT there are so many negative views about the NHS and I am guilty of the same thoughts.

We can’t get away from the fact that what people are saying is actually true but I have been prompted into telling you about the flip side of that coin.

Unfortunately I have had occasion to call upon the NHS over the past 10 to 15 years so I have actually seen first-hand what does go on and in different hospitals, too.

On Monday, again I had an outpatients appointment. Can I say, from going into reception and booking in, the compassion for people’s fears were catered for.

The nurse that was assigned to book me in drew the short straw because my mobility and heart are not at all good, so I need more attention than other patients.

This was not a problem to her – she was what I call an ‘angel’. It was the first time I didn’t feel like an absolute nuisance.

Every nurse that came through the ward smiled and asked if I was OK and also did the same for the other patients.

Then I was taken in to have my procedure done. Dr Grimes was so amenable and completely put me at my ease.

The unit was pristine, the bed linen so clean and crisp. It raises the question, if they can run the ward like that, why is it so difficult for other wards not to? Thank you so much for taking care of me so well.

MARILYN THOMPSON, Dukes Brow, Blackburn.