FOLLOWING the mainly TV media onslaught against the NHS - incompetent surgeons, dirty wards, bad food and acquired infections - I entered York District Hospital, at the age of 78, with some trepidation for surgery.

I found a brilliant, courteous young surgeon who appeared on the wards every day, including weekends; a lady anaesthetist who was expert and reassuring; clean wards, good food and competent nursing.

The domestic staff were a joy and the beds comfortable. Discharged after four days I am now reaping the benefit of my operation after years of suffering in silence.

Am I living in a different world?

Terence L Squires,

Turners Croft,

Heslington, York.

Updated: 10:18 Monday, September 24, 2001