I FEEL it is important to comment, from a personal aspect, on the excellent treatment and care I received while a patient on Ward 17 at the Alexandra Hospital, where I had surgery on both knees recently.

Firstly I was delighted to be allocated a bed after a "cancellation" had occurred, as there is such a pressure on bed availability in any 24-hour period, with nurses, doctors and all staff working flat out providing the maximum treatment and care to the residents of Bromsgrove and Redditch.

In one of our scrutiny reports a few months back, after our visit to the catering department of the hospital, we (seven councillors) stressed the excellent preparation, quality and presentation of food to the bedside.

I can now comment on the nourishing aspect of the food, having experienced it over a three-day period and I have to say I am amazed such quality can be delivered considering the stringent budget that exists.

Likewise the care I received over a 24-hour period where I witnessed the high quality expertise that nurses, particularly, are delivering to patients.

It gives me great confidence in our local health service.

Well done to all staff.

Councillor Dave McGrath

Brecon Ward

Vice-chairman

Health and Leisure Scrutiny Committee

Bromsgrove District Council