RE the fight against MRSA infection. I see there are now steps being taken to reduce the incidence of MRSA in our hospitals.

The steps being taken now are things that were in place years ago.

Infection even before the advent of antibiotics did not reach the levels we are experiencing now.

I think a panel of retired nurses who trained in the '50s and '60s could give some valuable advice in combating this infection.

Ask any retired nurse what they witness when they visit hospitals and all of them will tell you how horrified they are at some of the things they see.

Nowadays you see nurses in uniform outside. I've even seen nurses outside wearing anoraks and trainers with their uniforms and smoking. Hardly commanding respect!

The wearing of jewellery and false nails would never have been allowed in the past.

Cutting costs by not having enough cleaning staff is a false economy.

Perhaps the return of the cadet nurse could improve the situation.

Student nurses in the past used to damp dust the wards before they began their nursing duties.

Credit must be given to East Lancashire Hospitals NHS Trust chief executive Jo Cubbon for addressing the problem. Let's hope she gets the co-operation for her plans that she deserves.

WINNIE MCKENNA, Trinity Street, Oswaldtwistle.