AS a recently retired GP's medical receptionist, with 23 years' experience within the Wigan and Leigh NHS Trust, I have seen many changes over the years.

The most serious was the closure of the A & E Dept, CCU Medical and Surgical Departments and theatres at Leigh Infirmary and being transferred to Wigan Infirmary, where these facilities were extended. The people in Leigh, Tyldesley and Atherton were devastated when this happened and so many of them, along with local councillors, worked tremendously hard to keep Leigh Infirmary open. They now have a Minor Injuries Unit, which helps keep the pressure off Wigan Infirmary.

All this has resulted in the problems at the Royal Bolton Hospital. Many times I hear of people in this area going to Bolton. The problem at Bolton is very serious and I feel so sorry for the medical staff. I also feel this is down to bad management generally. Also, my opinion is that there is no requirement for so many executives and administrative staff, who are paid high salaries for causing such mayhem. I also know, from my experience, that some of them have no previous NHS experience -- I know because I have worked with them.

Mrs W Prescott

Aylesbury Crescent

Hindley Green