I would like to echo the comments made by Dame Vera Lynn regarding the proposed closure of the A&E department at the Princess Royal Hospital at Haywards Heath.

Like Dame Vera, I needed its services recently when I fell downstairs. The treatment I received was second to none.

Admittedly, I did not know much about the journey there, but can imagine the added trauma to the relatives following the ambulance if the destination had been Brighton, or even Redhill.

To downgrade or close the department is just not on. The A&E is an essential part of the Princess Royal and thank God for it.

-Mrs M. Baldwin, Bonny Wood Road, Hassocks