"First class"

I visited Circle as an outpatient and I was impressed.

Its location isn't pretty - on an industrial estate opposite a Mercedes garage - but once you get past the eastern-bloc car park, everything improves.

The reception area is smart and welcoming, not like a hospital at all.

It was decorated for Christmas when I was there and the tree looked lovely.

Unlike the BMI Bath Clinic, there are no free hot drinks on tap but you do get a voucher for one free (filter) coffee at the deli bar.

If you want a latte or an Americano, it's £1 extra.

On the plus side, the deli bar is well-stocked with all the usual café confectionary - cookies, biscotti, etc - and you can also order sandwiches and hot meals.

I was also impressed at having a headshot photo taken so the consultant was able to recognise me, without calling out my name.

A neat touch.

All in all, a very pleasant experience.