WE often hear so much about how bad the NHS is and in the past I've had my share of moans, but something happened recently to make me have second thoughts and change my outlook completely.

Four months ago my wife was taken ill in Italy. After five weeks we managed to get her transferred back to England by air ambulance where she was taken to Bath's Royal United Hospital.

After a further two weeks there, and because of the nature of the illness she was unable to move or do anything for herself she was transferred to Chippenham Hospital to Beech Stroke Ward.

While there we found the nursing staff treated my wife with all the patience, love and compassion that she needed at this time. There was nothing that was too much trouble for any of the nurses at any time to help keep my wife comfortable.

Then there was the physio team who were absolutely brilliant with the care and encouragement given to my wife. In fact in the short time they had to work with her they managed to get her back to about 70 per cent mobility.

I would, however, like to add that I was always made welcome in the ward where I spent most days with my wife and when she was well enough we could enjoy the beautiful grounds surrounding the ward.

After talking to most patients we all agree the food at Chippenham Hospital was excellent.

All in all, I think if I had to spend time in hospital I would have no reservations about going to Chippenham Hospital, so thank you all in ward Beech Stroke, the nurses, the physio team and to those ladies who keep everything spic and span. You renewed our faith in the NHS.

BILL JOHNSON

Longcroft Road

Devizes