Regarding the current Big Issue (Friday, October 20), I had a hip operation over five years ago in PMH. The treatment from the surgeons and everyone involved was first class, but the nurses were rushed off their feet and patients were being sent home early to free beds.

There was much talk between patients of overworked and under paid nurses and we were all aware that the situation was grim.

That was before Labour came to power! Personally, I think Tony Blair may have underestimated the damage done to the NHS by the Tories, and this he inherited. I think it will take more than three plus years to put it right.

No wonder nurses were leaving the NHS, but hopefully the tide will turn and Princess Margaret Hospital has made a start recruiting nurses from Australia.

Also there seems to be a lot more people requiring treatment owing to Swindon's expansion and clearly our hospital is overloaded.

That new hospital is desperately needed.

K HENDRY

Islandmead

Eldene

Swindon