MADAM, The Wye Valley NHS Trust prides itself on 'providing care at the right place, at the right time' and values 'people first'. Yet when faced with a problem they choose the most expedient solution with no regard to putting people first.

It is ironic this took place alongside h.energy week in Herefordshire exhorting us all to living more sustainably. As Dr Richard Parker points out in his letter please let us have some lateral thinking to save this service.

Surely one of the things we could expect from highly paid managers of public services is that they respect their public and secondly, when faced with a problem they can think outside the box to come up with a sustainable solution.

Unfortunately I am away for the public meeting on October 30th, but will be there in spirit.

Antje Preston

Madam, thank you for your front page story about the Minor Injuries Unit petition. I joined the Friends of Ross Community Hospital on a stand at the Market House last Saturday and I can confirm the overwhelming support of residents for keeping the opening hours as they were.

Anyone who wants to lend their support should try to attend the public meeting organised by the Mayor being held at 6.30pm, Tuesday, October 30th at the Larruperz.

You can also sign the petition online at http://www.herefordshire.gov.uk">www.herefordshire.gov.uk - follow the link to Council & Democracy and then online petitions. If you would like paper copies of the petition contact me on 01989 563299.

Chris Bartrum, Ross