"First off, yes it is a hurdle ..."

What I liked

First off, yes it is a hurdle getting in, I was put off for a hernia op which is frustrating but...

... once you're in!

My experience was one of an outstanding patient focus from every member of staff that I met. From the recovery team in theatre who looked after me whilst the patient occupying my bed was evicted! even the theatre team who knocked me out! But I must say, the nursing staff on ward C18 were the best! Three particular mambers of staff were outstanding! I was very impressed by their professionalism, their patient focus and their dedication to the job ... and that has to go to everybody I met.

Whilst I was in recovery a little girl came through and their care of her was awe inspiring.

Good job, well done - deffo pride of the NHS

What could be improved

Food? Ok, not awful but some scope for improvement. though you can't please everyone but since when have broad beans been an ingredient of chicken bhuna?

Seriously though it's ok. i fear the efforts to make the meals healthy impacts on some enjoyment but hey, who said you were there for either a gastonomic extravaganza or as a food critic. i survived it so it's down either to my cast iron constitution, expert nursing care or that infact broadbeans are not poisonous.

Anything else?

Just a huge thanks to all the guys in theatre, recovery, the troops in C18 and all the support workers who always had time to check you were ok.

I truely mean it when I say it was the best experience of a uk hospital I have experienced and that is all down to the guys on the ground... so well done and may many more plagued with illness and injury get the same level of professional care and attention that i did.

The standard for care in the NHS has been raised by the people in this hospital who work in difficult conditions and long hours, take a leaf from their book.