(Copy of a letter sent to Warrington NHS Trust) On Saturday, December 23, in of the morning I was taken ill with a severe backache that proved to be an aortic aneurysm.

I write to thank all concerned, from the paramedics, Mr J W Johnson, his colleagues and the operating theatre staff, for saving my life. This is quite simply a fact as, at 88 years of age, and the seriousness of he operation, there was seemingly a small chance of a successful outcome for me.

The care and attention I received from the sister and the nurses in ward A4 was welcomed and gratefully accepted. I must add that the helpfulness of the rest of the staff was also much appreciated and the pride taken in the cleanliness of the ward is to the credit of everyone.

As I live on my own, I had been a little concerned as to how I would manage on my release from hospital, but the START team solved this problem and with their help I am now well on the way to recovery.

You may feel that you are just doing your job, but be assured, it is a job well done.

Eric Marshall Stockton Heath