In response to Mr Hedworth’s slightly simplistic view on the current crisis in the NHS, we need more ‘affordable’ housing in this area.

Villages are dying because of second homes, what is needed is more governance from local authorities when areas are developed so that services reflect the growing population – but property prices are a quintessential part of this.

Dorset has become one of the most popular areas in the country to live, estate agents unashamedly promote property as second home potential – but Dorset is unaffordable for those that matter, the next generation, our young people, the future.

How can professionals consider positions when the relocation expenses are so high, this just jettisons any professional at the first hurdle as they cannot afford to buy or rent a home in the locality, so we shall remain in this situation until property becomes affordable.

The result is the lack of professionals, causing an imbalance of services, GP surgeries are closing, yet we are all living longer and expectations and demands increase.

Factor in the decades of woeful underfunding from previous Governments which has squeezed the NHS and social care and bled it dry and we have a perfect storm.

As much as Mr Hedworth’s description of our NHS as a ‘floundering organisation’ may have some accuracy, I still believe it to be the best in the world and I applaud those who tirelessly work to uphold those treasured values.

KAREN BROAD

Burton Bradstock