DURING the course of last week I had to make three visits to Blackburn's two hospitals, Blackburn Royal Infirmary and Queen's Park, fortunately not for myself but to accompany my brother-in-law.

I have been doing this for some time now and have become very familiar with various departments dealing with his problem.

His treatment every two weeks is quite involved and requires several nurses, generally two consultants and, of course, the ambulance service.

Sometimes on arrival at BRI, especially on a cold winter morning, it could get very depressing and possibly stressful to some, but the medical staff all coped with the various problems of each patient and I have watched carefully over the past 12 months, cramped conditions, narrow doorways, steps everywhere.

I do believe BRI and the old QPH have served this area very well indeed, considering.

However, on Monday morning, July 10, I had the pleasure of arriving at the new Royal Blackburn Hospital, it was 8.30am.

I feel I have to say to all the people who have been involved in the massive operation including patient transfer from BRI congratulations.

It was an amazing experience for me and certainly my brother-in- law on arriving at planned admission (ward C10).

It is absolutely splendid bright, roomy and spotless.

The staff were all buzzing, nothing was too much trouble, from cleaner to two consultants. I was proud to be there.

So regardless of my anger at the way this government has attempted to destroy our NHS, I simply wish to say well done to all the people who made the change-ove something to be proud of.

ERNEST LAW-RIDING, Dutton Brook House, Ribchester.