WE seem to live in a society where we enjoy criticising instead of valuing such services as our National Health Service, the police or our education system. So I wish to praise the medical service.

I awoke in severe pain early one morning and it would not subside. I telephoned the emergency on-call doctor who offered to come out to me. I declined but was advised, if able, to visit the "walk-in" surgery practice in Monkgate.

On entering a crowded waiting room I was prepared for a long wait. Instead, after only five minutes, I was attended to and was given excellent care.

A very pleasant doctor gave me explicit advice and reassurance.

I don't think any other country but England could provide our unique National Health Service.

Berenice Gardein,

Third Avenue,

Heworth, York.

Updated: 09:22 Wednesday, May 25, 2005