I would like to thank the man who stopped his van, presumably on his way to work, early one recent Friday to help me to the side of the road after I came off my bike. He kindly made sure I was OK before going on his way.

I would like to thank the man who stopped his van, presumably on his way to work, early one recent Friday to help me to the side of the road after I came off my bike. He kindly made sure I was OK before going on his way.When my husband came to pick me up, he decided I needed to go to hospital and my experience could not be more different from your reader's neighbour. At Honiton hospital the attitude of the staff ranged from dispassionate to downright rude! I felt like a naughty little girl who was wasting their time. The ambulance crew, who took me to Exeter, were sullen and unfriendly, barely speaking to me all the way to Exeter. The accident and emergency department at Wonford was not busy when I arrived yet I was left shaking alone on a chair, despite telling several people I was very cold. Eventually, I was given a folded blanket after specifically asking for one. This was not helpful as I only had the use of one arm so I had to struggle to unfold it and try to wrap myself in it as best I could. The young nurses and the radiographer were delightful but the doctor had a real 'couldn't care less' attitude. Common courtesy and compassion cost nothing and I am saddened that this is not available on the National Health! Lynn Martin Marily HouseBowling Green LaneHoniton