I READ with interest Brenda Williams' letter (March 22 issue) and agree wholeheartedly with her.

Gone are the days when we felt secure in the knowledge that we could get in touch with our GP at any time and be sure of a visit in an emergency.

I lost my husband recently and spent a desperately worrying night when he was dying, alone, frightened.

I asked Primary Care for their help but no-one came.

The first time a doctor visited was to confirm my husband had passed away.

As Mrs Williams points out it was long and hard hours for GPs such as Dr Williams, but we, the patients, were so grateful to know there was someone there in our hour of need.

My recent experience will be long with me.

CHRISTINE XAVIER-SMITH

Gilgal, Stourport