I am very concerned at the negative press given to our hospitals in relation to a small minority of patients having to wait on trolleys and allegedly being treated with no respect.

Last week, I sat with my neighbour while she waited for an ambulance to take her to Worthing hospital. Two years ago, at the age of 82, she had a kidney removed and received the best treatment anyone could get.

Although she was very poorly on this occasion, she was more concerned she might be left lying on a trolley in a corridor.

Indeed, this was her principal concern.

It made me very cross to think how we have been brainwashed by the media into thinking our hospitals abound with patients on trolleys.

However, the ambulance duly arrived with two paramedics, who were most helpful and kind to my neighbour.

She was admitted to hospital and, after being assessed, was taken to a ward where she is receiving very good treatment and is expected home in two to three weeks.

If this lady is filled with apprehension by media stories about patients being left on trolleys, how many more elderly people are concerned when told they might have to go into hospital?

-Mrs Jean White, Old Salts Farm Road, Lancing