"Minor Injuries Unit, Tiverton Hospital, Devon"

I came back from a few days in France, late on a Saturday, with a very painful left arm and shoulder - couldn't do anything with my left arm.

Sunday morning my wife took me to the Minor Injuries Unit in Tiverton, Devon. I was seen quickly by a Sister who provisionally diagnosed the problem (accurately) and arranged for me to have a precautionary ECG and then see a doctor - all within the hour! Unusually, I was unable to have an x-ray that day, but subsequently had a timed appointment for one, followed by a consultation with another doctor - again all done well within an hour.

All the above happened despite me living 'over the border' in Somerset. The staff were all terrific, well organised and appeared to have time to concentrate on ME for as long as required. It just goes to show what can be done in the NHS with good management and motivated staff.

This was not an isolated experience - the concept of a well-run minor injuries unit (to take pressure off A&E) is brilliant.