Our NHS ambulance service has had some bad press recently, but I would like to acknowledge the service I received, which was impressive.

On Thursday 26th May I awoke with the most excruciating pain in my left shoulder.

Being concerned, my wife called 111, but after a long wait, many menu options, and then a lot of questions, she was advised to contact our local pharmacy for a consultation. By that time, I was literally screaming with the severity of the pain.

So, as a last resort, and against my wishes because I feared becoming part of the problem, she called 999.

The ambulance arrived in about 15 minutes on a “blue light” call.

The two medics came in without waiting for the door to be opened, and started examining me, doing tests and making notes.

They were here a full hour, the tests were thorough and included an ECG. Results and opinions were telephoned to and discussed with our GP, conclusions reached, a prescription electronically sent to the pharmacy, and my wife collected it within minutes.

Thankfully, my condition was not serious, but I could not have had better or more timely treatment had I been in a serious condition.

My wife and I would like to commend those two men for their professionalism, the way they explained what they were doing and why, and the fact that they would not be hurried when we showed concern for the time they were with us.

No names, but they will know who they were who called to Jessopp Avenue on that Thursday morning.

Anybody who needs comfort and excellent service in the event of an emergency will do well to have you respond to their call. Thank you.

Brian G. Beckwith

Jessopp Avenue, Bridport