I DON'T know whether Michael Howard would want to use my story at his press conference, but here it is.

I am an 82-year-old diabetic and get much better care and treatment now than at any time in the last 30 years.

Since my retirement I have had very frequent treatment in three local hospitals. At Hope Hospital, I am seen every six months in the Renal Unit, always with very thorough attention.

At Wrightington Hospital, I have had an operation, and wrote afterwards to express gratitude for what they did.

At the Royal Bolton Hospital, I have had major surgery that altogether entailed me staying nine weeks on a ward.

I have also had treatment at the Ear, Nose and Throat Department, and frequent treatment at the Eye Unit for two cataract operations, laser treatment and regular check-ups.

Visits to the Urological Unit have included tests, scans and x-rays.

Other departments have been involved.

I could not have asked for better care if I had paid for it. The only complaint about the Royal Bolton is insufficient parking facilities!

In addition to all this, I have a first-class GP and assisted staff in the group practice.

Compared with many years ago, the attitude and friendliness of hospital staff is so much better. No more big chiefs surrounded by juniors standing at the bottom of your bed and discussing you as if you were not meant to be involved.

So I will not join the moaners who decry the NHS.

Canon Colin Craston

Lever Park Avenue

Horwich