ELAINE JONES, of Brook Street, Slapton, writes: If I hear one more word against the NHS in this area, I swear I shall scream. Having just spent four weeks in its care, I have nothing, absolutely nothing to complain about – apart from the food at Torbay which has deteriorated considerably since January. At Torbay the nursing and doctoring is second to none. They are all a charming, helpful, kind and very able group. Now comes the gold card: South Hams Community Hospital. Tell me, where else would you find a matron who used to be in charge of 1,000 beds in a London hospital, tucked away in Kingsbridge, or a young woman who has an English degree, plays the cello and writes poetry! She also manages to be an health care assisant two days a week and a hotel worker another two days a week. The salt of the earth, as are the dedicated staff nurses, some of whom keep you amused with tales of their farmyard pets. From the top to the bottom, and the doctors – absolutely faultless. It truly is unbelievable. Lastly, the food. Home cooked, no less, with two cooks on board, afternoon drinks and cake. Oh yes, there's also a newspaper, free of charge. I'll stop now or you'll all want to go. But from the bottom of my heart, thank you and to the lovely carers who visit me at home. Lucky? I should say so.