I READ your piece re Okehampton Community Hospital on the day that I was discharged after a week as an in-patient and would like to add a few words in support. When I was admitted I was feeling really ill and depressed but the cheerfulness and care shown by all the staff soon had an effect. I have read that it has been described as resembling an hotel, however I think it unlikely that one would find an hotel with such a happy friendly atmosphere. The food, which I understand is all prepared on the premises, is excellent, and the cleaning regime which is carried out by a directly employed team is a revelation. I am sure that if there were ever an outbreak of any infection, it would not be ?home-grown?. The future of local hospitals generally seems uncertain, and it would be a tragedy if we were to lose this one. It deserves all the support we can give. R J Ayton 2 Parade Cottage Exbourne
