It is with some distress that I read of dissatisfaction with the hospitals of this region. I read of dirty wards and patients pushed to one side and ignored. I will, therefore, write of my personal experiences over the last six weeks.

I will not go into the complex set of illnesses that lead to me being found unconscious on the pavement outside my home – fortunately by a nurse.

At Blackburn Royal, in the A&E unit, I was told that, had I not been found, I had less then two hours of life. I was thoroughly tested by them and passed on to the assessment ward. From there to a critical ward. There was no feeling of being moved to somewhere different – just to another part of the team.

At Blackburn the care was utterly superb. Always cheerful faces, whatever I asked of them. Their faces and attitude say “It’s a pleasure” – all the time.

Blackburn got me back on the road to health and I was brought to Pendle Community Hospital for rehabilitation. Again, the flow from one part of the team to another. Smiles, friendliness, love and deep care. I feel privileged indeed to have been in the company of such beautiful people.

Lack of hygiene? What? They never stop! The place is spotless. I can be untidy for England. A compromise is reached – and I have a readily cleaned untidy patch!

The usual hospital joke – food. At worst, it has been wholesome and tasty – at best it is to gourmet standards and I do know food.

The distance to Blackburn from Nelson? Thirty minutes along a smooth motorway, I’d guess. I come from Cumbria – minimum 55 minutes along twisting bumpy country roads. Get real East Lancashire – you have the NHS you deserve – superb.

John, Haslingden.