THE purpose of my letter (October 2) regarding the appalling cuisine during my stay at the Alexandra Hospital was to bring awareness to the authorities so they can investigate and improve the menu for others.

I felt that Nigel Matthews' letter (Journal, October 9) was insensitive and had an inpertinent and insolent tone.

I was pleased, though, to read that he was satisfied with his hospital menu.

To a degree, it is a matter of ones own standards, and the food that one has been used to. My criticism could be due to my own high standard of living.

Mr Matthews continues by advising me to become a member of BUPA, not knowing my circumstances or indeed if I am already a member.

I was unexpectedly taken into hospital. I had no choice.

A nutritious diet is of the utmost importance, particularly when recovering from a serious illness, and am genuinely pleased that Mr Matthews enjoyed his hospital food.

I did not and lost weight as a result.

I lost my wife of 63 years last year, and at 87 years of age I am now living on my own.

Mr Matthews' advice to ferry food from home was unfortunately impossible.

Douglas Wathen

Evesham