THERE has been much publicity recently about the failings of the Health Service, in which the Royal Bolton Hospital didn't fare too well.

I would like to put my experience on record, to reassure others that all is not black!

I was recently taken ill, an ambulance was called, which arrived with the paramedics very promptly. I was treated with great kindness and efficiency, although I didn't help by vomiting and blacking out several times.

On arrival at the hospital, I was attended to immediately by nurses and doctors, and some time later was taken to a bed in the Medical Assessment Unit, where I received numerous tests and constant monitoring. Again the nurses were kind and attentive, although they were very busy -- as were the doctors. The notorious "hospital food" left something to be desired, but this seemed a minor matter, and it is obviously very difficult to cater for so many, and varied needs.

I would like to point out that some patients make life difficult for the staff, and are indeed their own worst enemies.

(Name and address supplied)