PRAISE be for the Alexandra Hospital in Redditch and NHS Direct.

Out of hours, my wife suffered continuous agonising stomach pain. A doctor was soon sent, who immediately summoned an ambulance. My wife received every possible care and attention.

The consultant came to ward 11 on a Sunday. Major surgery was scheduled. Both pre and post-op services were excellent and fastidious. What more could anyone ask for?

We both have cause to be grateful for the system that also embraces Bromsgrove's New Road surgery. It's worth its weight in gold.

John Slater,Cottage Lane, Bromsgrove