My visit proved why we need our hospital

I HAVE recently had – which for me was a rare occurrence – treatment for a minor heart concern at Huddersfield Royal Infirmary.

From arrival at a very busy A&E through to diagnostic unit and overnight in ward 1 I received considerate and thorough treatment throughout consisting of blood tests, ECGs, chest X-ray and a heart scan.

I was fully aware that I was by no means the only patient requiring treatment that night and that the care and treatment was “free at the point of need.”

All this left me thinking - how can this busy, overstretched and fully-equipped hospital be even considered for downgrading?

Quite recently a group of wellmeaning local businessmen suggested that Huddersfield should have a ‘city’ status, so if that should come about how can a city not have a fully functioning hospital?

Whether we become a city or not, the whole HRI situation needs a radical re-think so that everyone can continue to receive the same care as I have just had.

Many thanks to consultant Suneeta and all the staff. I HAVE over 50 years been involved with The Messiah and for the last few years had the privilege of listening to The Choral and this week’s absolutely stunning performance.

It really was an offering in praise and sung with such sincerity which brought home to me what message Handel was seeing and sharing when he wrote it.

The conductor made controlled declaration start to finish.

I listened with anticipation and appreciation the whole way through from first to the last.

The culmination by the choir was really something in the precision control and contrast that was achieved.

The opening bars of the Amen chorus were really something, so temperate in volume it was quite haunting and the contrast in the final section it brought the soloists (who also offered much) to their feet to a marvellous completion which an enthused audience really appreciated.

I came home really valuing what a heritage we have to be proud of in Huddersfield Choral. RECENTLY I was interested when looking through the classified ads under Sport and Leisure (December 18) to find the following advertised for sale.

It stated: “Exorcise Machine 6 months old excellent condition. £25.”

Surely this is a bargain for anyone troubled by malevolent spirits?

Father Damien Karras (The Exorcist) would have charged more to visit?