My 93-year-old mother fractured her hip in a care home, was admitted to A&E at Barnet Hospital and treated compassionately until a bed could be found for her. She had a hip replacement operation and was placed in a busy surgical ward. For six weeks she received care and treatment of a very high standard.

Being an ex-nurse, I have a hyper critical eye.

Despite the big turn-over of patients and great number of operations, my mother was always looked after and, I believe, even began to enjoy her hospital stay.

I would like to express my family's gratitude for the hard work and kindness of nurses, doctors and ancillary staff on Aspen Ward.

Mrs Hilary Thomas

Grasvenor Avenue, Barnet