AFTER reading Dennis Barton’s letter of December 11 about his experience with the NHS emergency services, I wish to endorse his comments. I experienced an almost identical situation earlier this week.

At about 8.45am, I phoned and spoke to my GP, explaining my symptoms of left-side chest pain following a period of extreme stress and sleepless nights. My GP was both firm and clear, yet not alarmist as to what I should do – phone 999.

This I did and once more I was given firm and clear instructions about what to do and what to expect.

Within minutes, the paramedic, Andrew, had arrived, followed promptly by the ambulance team. They were all very kind, friendly and reassuring.

Assessment, ECG and other tests were carried out, before taking me by ambulance to A&E.

Like Dennis, I was made comfortable in a treatment room where further tests were done. There was some delay before I saw the doctor, but as I was clearly identified as non-urgent by this time and this was acceptable. We were provided with tea and sandwiches, before being discharged.

The NHS is frequently criticised, but I can only give it praise. I was treated with kindness, courtesy, respect and dignity.

Jayne Muir Crayke, York.