READING the article regarding Mr Brian Phillips' problem when he contacted the out of hours Primary Care Service, I appreciate the problems he said he had experienced.

I have had to contact this service three times in the past ten months. All my calls were in the early hours of the morning and were regarding my husband who has a problem with the rhythm of his heart.

On all occassions the call has been answered almost immediately. After stating my problem all my questions were dealt with quickly and efficiently, giving me great peace of mind. On all occassions I have had to take my husband to the Alexandra Hospital, primary care had phoned ahead and each time a doctor was waiting for us where treatment was given by A&E and the MAU unit and with the least amount of waiting time or fuss.

As I said, I appreciate that people do have various problems with out-of-hours services, but I cannot fault the service from my experience.

I felt the need to say something in the defence of a very valuable service to the community.

Mavis Drew

Ashmead Drive

Cofton Hackett