IN view of the vast amount of criticism of Leigh Infirmary recently, I felt I should put on record my own experience at the nurse-led Minor Injuries Unit.

The unit is bright and cheerful, with a large rocking horse and plenty of toys available for children, as well as a colour TV for people waiting for attention.

I had a minor injury to my hand and explained I had not gone in over the weekend as I felt it was not serious enough to be treated as an emergency.

I was reassured by a very friendly nurse on reception that "this is no longer an Accident and Emergency Unit and you would have been quite in order to come in as it is now a Minor Injuries Unit and it would have been fine."

I waited no more than 10 minutes before being seen by the Nurse-Practitioner Barbara Gorton. This lady was friendly and pleasant and took time to listen to my explanation about my injury. After a simple examination of my wrist she explained exactly what damage had been done, put a splint on and prescribed the necessary pain killers for the condition.

My reaction to the whole experience was a feeling that the staff knew what they were doing and did it pleasantly.

All this was in stark contrast to my last visit when it was an A & E Unit. I have been most upset at the possibility of losing Leigh Infirmary, as I have gone there from being a small child and am now retired. My recent visit has left me feeling much happier about it. Perhaps it will still be there for my great-grandchildren of the future.

Joyce Hayes

Wigan Road,

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