I was recently an in-patient in the Royal Sussex County Hospital, where I underwent a serious operation.

I was naturally apprehensive and this feeling was increased by reports in the media of infections, ward closures due to sickness and dirty hospital interiors.

How delighted I was to find this was not the case when I spent my time as an in-patient.

The Millennium block, at least on level nine, was spotlessly clean and I was able to regularly observe the efforts which were made to keep it that way and the individual staff members' attention to hygiene.

The care I received from Mr Lamah and his team was exemplary, demonstrating the highest standards of professionalism and care for patients.

Staff of all levels were kind, courteous and understanding, always willing to help and attend to my needs. Had I have been paying for private care, I could not have experienced better treatment.

Reports in the media can give a bad impression of the National Health Service. I am so pleased I had such a different and positive experience.

May I use this opportunity to publicly thank all those who were involved in my care.

-Edith Collins, Hove