In these times of continual criticism of the NHS I felt I must write of my recent experience.

I had occasion to telephoned my GP Practice, Stoneleigh Surgery in Milnthorpe, on Wednesday, April 27. I was seen within the hour by Dr S. Allan, who, after examining me, contacted the Acute Surgical Assessment Unit at Royal Lancaster Infirmary. He arranged for me to be admitted there immediately.

He was so thorough and explained everything to me in detail. He provided me with papers containing my medical history, medication and current medical problem to pass to the Unit. My sincere thanks must go to him.

At the Unit I was greeted by a nurse, shown to a bed and she took bloods from me, fitted various monitors and completed the necessary documentation. I was then examined by a doctor and arrangements were made for my operation.

The care, consideration and professionalism shown by all the staff was second to none and I was well prepared for the operation. My care immediately after the operation was first class and when back on the Unit, the excellent care by the nurses continued.

I was seen the following morning by my surgeon, Mr Wilson, who fully explained details of the operation and the plan for my future care. My discharge was carefully organised and went without a hitch. Again, my sincere thanks to everyone.

I am now at home and cannot praise the NHS enough for the care I received at all times from the doctors and nurses. The food was great and thanks must go to the porters and cleaners, who were also efficient and pleasant.

The faultless experience I had proves that we are very lucky in our area to have such a super National Health Service.

Graham Thompson

Storth