I must defend the National Health Service after reading so much harsh and misplaced criticism recently.

Two weeks ago, I was in a car crash outside Brighton. The car was a write-off. Luckily, my daughter-in-law, who was driving, was not too badly hurt and called the emergency services.

Within a very short while, three ambulances came to transport us - another lady, my four-year-old granddaughter, my daughter-in-law and myself - to the Royal Sussex County Hospital, Brighton.

I must thank the wonderfully kind, gentle and patient paramedics who cared for us, the staff at A&E, the nurses on the ward and everyone involved in our care for their very high standards of professionalism and kindness.

Two of us have fractured sternums and one has cracked ribs; happily, my granddaughter is fine. We were all wearing seat belts.

After a few days, I was transferred to the "hospital hotel", where ambulant patients have their own rooms, TVs, tea trays and excellent care until they are fit enough for the next step in their recovery - again, the staff were excellent.

On returning home to Bath, driven gently by my family, my doctor made a home visit as soon as this was requested, sorted out drugs, gave further advice and assistance and will come out at any time if asked.

My very grateful thanks to all concerned. My friend is being cared for in the hospital hotel and has told me how comfortable she is.

I feel strongly that credit must be given to those who I know can be pushed beyond the call of duty and still continue, despite the derogatory remarks that are so often made.

-Maureen M Scammell, Church Road, Bath