ON Saturday my neighbour fell in her back garden and broke her fibia (thigh bone).  

We dialled 999. The lady on the phone was very helpful, efficient and calming.  

The ambulance arrived quickly and the paramedics were very competent, kind and caring.  

They ascertained the extent of the injury and kept my neighbour informed at all times.  

She was moved on to a stretcher.  

This was very difficult to do as she had fallen in an area of the garden where there were many obstacles.  

She was unable to bear weight and the two paramedics had to lift a dead weight (a very hard thing to do and a great strain on the back).

Once in the ambulance they administered a painkiller through a drip.

On arrival at the hospital we were met with smiles and courtesy.  

At all times we were informed of what was going to happen next.  

My neighbour was asked if she was warm enough and how severe the pain was.

The next morning (Sunday) they operated and pinned her fibia.

On Monday she stood twice with the help of a zimmer frame.

Nowhere else in the world would you get so much excellent service without having to pay thousands with your credit card up front.

We should have pride in our NHS and respect for the hard working staff.  

If you praise something it will hold its head up high, constantly knock it and it will sink into depression and falter.

Lesley Baker, Southwick