I AM writing to say how much I appreciate the excellent care I received at Hereford County Hospital when I was admitted with a broken ankle.

From the moment the ambulance arrived at Bromyard Downs, where I had fallen on a ramblers' walk, to my discharge two days later, I received nothing but professional, expert and kind treatment.

Phil the triage nurse and Kate in the plaster room were excellent. Everyone on the day case ward where I was admitted was not only attentive and kind, but looked after me with such grace that I can only admire them all, since the hospital was undoubtedly under pressure.

The skill of Mr Shewell and his team is evidenced by the complete lack of trouble I have had with my ankle since starting to put weight on it, this even though some metal was inserted during my operation.

I can imagine it can be disheartening for staff working in the NHS, with limited resources and ever-growing demands, to have to listen to the endless criticism bandied around in the media, and used for political purposes by MPs etc.

Of course, there can never be enough money or staff to go around, but the heroic work of NHS staff should be recognised and praised more often.

SUZY BISHOP Madley