OFTEN we read articles in the national press criticising the National Health Service on standards of care. These at times may be justified, however they can have the effect of demoralising staff who often have to work in difficult circumstances. So it is important to them that they receive praise when the latter is deserved.

My elderly aunty (age 93) was admitted to Whiston Hospital in early January, she was seriously ill. After a short spell on the medical assessment unit, she was found a bed on Ward C2.

At that time Whiston Hospital was on red alert due to an acute bed shortage, this put extra pressures on an already over worked staff. Bearing this in mind I can only say that the care my aunt received on C2 was of the highest quality nothing was too much trouble. When my aunt required attention there was always staff on hand to tend to her needs.

They did their level best to help my aunty to recover, my family was impressed at how they worked as a very efficient team and despite our aunt's age they did everything they possibly could. They treated her with great respect and dignity despite all their efforts aunty sadly passed away after being in hospital for 23 days. The loving care and attention she received during that time was second to none, she could not have received better care anywhere, not even in the private health care sector.

So from all my family, thank you Whiston Hospital and in particular all the staff on C2, you are an example of all that is best in our National Health Service.

MICHAEL Bradbury and family, Windle Street, St Helens.