For a long time, the media have been full of hospital horror stories of long waiting times in A&E, even longer waiting times for operations and, more worryingly, the occasional medical blunder which ruins or ends a patient's life.

While it is deplorable the NHS has been allowed to fall into this state, I really would like to redress the balance and say three cheers for the "no star" Royal Sussex Hospital (RSH) in Brighton.

Having had a hysterectomy and repair operation in February 2000 at the Brighton General, Dyke Three ward (fabulous nurser), I was admitted on October 19 this year for a further major gynaecological op to Bristol ward at the RSH. I was so pleased to see the familiar, cheery faces of the Brighton General nurses - who had been transferred en masse - and to be welcomed by them all and Yvonne, the wonderful lady on the nurses' desk who dispenses laughter, kindess, help and appointments.

I cannot fault the care and attention from the nurses - Fran, Gina, Sammy, Karen, Kore, Patricia, Charity and others whose names, I am sorry to admit, I can't remember.

Last but not least, a special thanks to my wonderful consultant, Kelvin Boos, who is kindness personified. Everything about my complicated operation was explained to my husband and myself in the clearest of terms, especially the extent of the healing process before I can return to work in three months.

Yes, the NHS is in a mess but let's give credit where it is due, as the nurses and consultants are demoralised with the constant bad press.

For anyone due to go into Bristol ward, forget the "no star" status - they are all stars and gold ones at that.

-Mrs Janet Tozer, Third Avenue, Hove