Thank you for your splendid article on the outrageous rip-off at the John Radcliffe Hospital in Oxford, Hospital calls 'too expensive', Watchdog demands a review of phone costs (Oxford Mail, May 15).

As a recent patient at the splendid hospital, my one and only complaint involved the wretched Patientline system which represents rampant extortion to one of the most vulnerable sections of society.

The TV picture was appalling (on full brightness) and most of the image was in dark silhouette.

The wiring on my earphone was faulty and unless it was held in place, the sound was intermittent.

Even so, the programmes were frequently interrupted by advertisements relating to Patientline. There was no evidence of any routine inspection by the company.

The process of obtaining even a local phone call required enormous patience and the screen image often alleged the incorrect dialling of the number required.

The dialling process also involved frequent screen changes referring to answerphone calls. Then, of course, the recording of 'your remaining credit' was always cropping up.

This outrage should be reported to trading standards officers for a searching investigation of the profits being made. Heavy fines ought to be imposed, some of which should be routed back to the NHS. Bravo, Oxford Mail.

GILBERT GUTHRIE, Amand Drive, Grestun Manor, Abingdon