SIR - I would like to thank MP Michael Foster for his efforts with Worcestershire Hospital Executive and helping to speed up the process for my double hernia operation. The time from diagnosis by my doctor to the operation was five months- too long you might think, but the prospect was nine months, which seems the normal time span.

The medical facilities at the hospital were first class and the team very efficient, for which I am grateful. A similar private operation would have cost me £2,800 plus consultant's fee. One wonders why in 2006 we put up with this situation and I urge people to follow my course and use their elected member of parliament to fight their case to speed up the process.

ANDREW PORTMAN,

Worcester.