Sir – In the last few weeks I have undergone, for me, a unique experience. I was admitted to the John Radcliffe Hospital as an acute surgical case in considerable pain.

The emergency ambulance crew were very gentle and reassuring, as were all the nursing staff. I was given pain relief by the surgical staff and interviewed in great detail by them all, including the senior surgeon.

After the emergency major operation, my post-operative recovery was very closely monitored. The care I have received throughout has been exemplary and given with cheerfulness, consideration, and great kindness — all part of our wonderful NHS.

The NHS comes in for some quite unjustified criticism these days, but how lucky we are to live in Britain with such a health service!

Marian Kitching, Headington