I was surprised to find myself in hospital. Based on this visit I wonder what all the negative press is about — I’m one of those who believe all the stuff said about the NHS and in particular Bolton Hospital.

Wel,l I didn’t have to pay for my night’s stay, or should I say bed and breakfast, with full medical cover.

At A&E I booked in and sat in the waiting area — I was surprised how quiet it was considering it was a Friday night. Within five minutes I was on a bed and I was reassured by a nurse that I needn’t worry that they were going to look after me.

Now I’m in for a night’s stay. After all that fun along came breakfast — a lovely cup of tea and really fresh hot toast.

After consultation with a specialist we agreed that I was overdoing the nicotine replacement therapy. I was duly discharged.

Other patients in this ward treated the nurses and assistants that served breakfast and cleaned and made the beds like they were always at their call and were quite cheeky at times (come on guys — treat people with more respect). But the staff were not rude — they seemed to take it all in their stride.

I know I’m going to be scolded or “trolled” for the reason for my stay, but what a lovely kind and efficient service.

You don’t get that in a hotel — you get it from a hard working NHS system.

I only pass this on from a patient to all others.

Criticize the NHS? — I doubt I will again.

Christopher Williams