MADAM, Following a referral to the hospital from my GP in Ross-on-Wye, I was advised I needed surgery. My operation was scheduled for 27th April. At 9.15 the night before I was told it had been cancelled. A new date of May 30th was given. On Thursday afternoon of May 29th at approximately 5pm I received a landline call to tell me my operation was not cancelled; a request for my mobile number was also made. I felt relieved if a little mystified. Half an hour later I had a call on my mobile to tell me it had been cancelled. I am concerned and angry about:

1. An ineffectual Constitution which appears to force NHS leaders to cancel operations the day before rather than risk being held to the 28 day 'last-minute' pledge. 2. A lack of confidence in receiving safe treatment. According to hospital staff I have spoken to the current situation across the Trust is 'dire and in crisis'. 3. A complete lack of confidence that my third rescheduled date will be upheld. I feel sure that my experience is not an isolated one. In the interests of public health and safety, the crisis at Hereford County Hospital needs to be investigated openly and as a matter of urgency.

Amanda Simmons

Editor's note:?This is a copy of a letter sent to MP Jesse Norman.