OUR NHS rocks. So do some unknown people in Salisbury.

Friday morning in Castle Street I tripped on the raised edge of a pavement slab and fell hard, dislocating my left shoulder.

Within seconds a woman stopped to try to help, and seconds later another woman rushed over with a huge umbrella and sheltered me from the rain. I couldn't move, of course. My left arm was immobilised by the dislocation and at that point there was a strong chance I'd broken bones as well.

Minutes later, a car pulled up and suddenly blue lights were flashing – the manager of the local fire station was driving past on his way back to the station and stopped to help. He called the paramedic first responder who very soon turned up. He took my details and assessed me, and called the ambulance.

They arrived very quickly. I was loaded onto a stretcher and put in the ambulance and ferried to the hospital. By about one o'clock I'd been X-rayed (nothing broken) and heavily medicated so they could manipulate the arm back into place.

I thanked everyone at the time, of course, but I want it out there that our NHS is pretty amazing despite its problems, and all its personnel I encountered were warm, caring and supportive. So too were the three strangers who stopped to help, sheltered me, guarded my shoulder-bag and shopper, and stayed with me until the ambulance arrived. Again, I thank you all.

There are some unpleasant people in the world, and some downright evil ones. But I believe that the majority of the human race is by instinct caring and compassionate, regardless of colour, creed, gender or race.

The rotten apples simply get more publicity.

Christine Power

THE partners who run Music4Fun would like to offer our sincere thanks to all the people who came and supported our showcase charity event in aid of Salisbury Hospice, at Laverstock Club on Friday, November 14.

Special thanks has to go to the musicians who entertained everyone so well and the many selfless volunteers whose behind-the-scenes work made this wonderful event possible. As a result of everyone’s efforts, we are pleased to announce that the event raised over £2,000 for Salisbury Hospice.

Yan Webber

Salisbury

I WOULD like to say a massive big thank you to all the staff at Camelot for the loving tender care that they all showed towards my father during his stay with you.

Alice and all the girls were kind and helped Harry when needed. The kitchen staff Sally and Bob – I thank them for all the teas and coffees they made for me in the afternoons. Thank you to all you girls.

Mrs E Rodber

Salisbury

ON Tuesday, November 18 I went to the evening performance of The Kite Runner at the Playhouse, which was excellent.

Because Fisherton Street was closed I had some difficulty with my taxi home.

Playhouse staff were wonderful – took control of the situation and got me home safe and sound.

Many thanks to my helpers.

Mrs C McCarthy

Salisbury