Nurse Nicola?

I recently had a very close friend die in Perth Royal Infirmary of pancreatic cancer. As he had no living relatives, myself and two of his closet friends were asked by him to be there at the end of his journey.

I found the care, professionalism and the compassion of the medical staff in Ward 4 and specifically Ward 6 to be outstanding. They were so

caring to my friend and to us as we sat there in his final hours from bringing us refreshments, to listening and walking the extra mile. I am proud to live in a country where we have an NHS with dedicated staff. At times we hear about underfunding and low morale but the level of care and dedication remains unchanged and does not show at ground zero. Well done NHS Tayside. GORDON KENNEDY Simpson Square, Perth

Yes, it is great to celebrate 70 years of the NHS and salute all who served in the past and those who continue to dedicate themselves in order to benefit all of us.

What a pity the large front page picture in The Scotsman on 6 July gives the impression that our First Minister had something to do with the success. It detracts from the nurses.

Nicola Sturgeon’s contribution has been negligible apart

from being photographed speaking to patients. She gives the impression that being photographed is the main part of her job. Actually, it really is turning out that way.

J WIGHTMAN Kingsknowe Road South,

Edinburgh