IN 1987, shortly after the Alexandra Hospital first opened, I unexpectedly suffered a perforated ulcer at around nine o'clock in the evening.

The doctor, who had been sent for, considered my condition so critical that it was thought not advisable to wait for an ambulance and I was rushed to the A&E. department by car where the staff were waiting for me.

I was given instant attention and an emergency operation from which I made a gradual recovery.

The journey from my house to the Alex started immediately and took no more than ten minutes. Had it been necessary for me to go to Worcester, at 64 years of age, it is doubtful if I would have survived.

If the financial problems arise out of the Worcestershire Royal Hospital proving to be more expensive than was envisaged, then the correct commercial decision would be to close the Worcestershire Royal Hospital.

Peter Gould

Bromsgrove