SIR, Chris Franks' "Support the NHS" letter in 11th February edition of the Beacon does not reveal that he is a prominent member of Plaid Cymru and leader of the Plaid Group on the Vale of Glamorgan council. Notwithstanding that, his letter does make good points about the failures of the NHS in Wales. I have been in hospital now for eleven months and am classed as elderly – aged 67. I am unable to walk due to spinal cancer and, as a lifelong socialist and supporter of the health service, I am appalled by what I see and have experienced during my enforced sojourn. There is no room to write a dissertation length article about failings so I won't even attempt it. The health service is a poisoned chalice for any politician. They can do ten good deeds daily, but the media will find at least one point of criticism. I have now written to Dr Mark Drakeford, the current Welsh Health Minister, asking him to come and visit me – we will see. Don't misinterpret me, there are some very good and dedicated people in our hospitals, plus many moderate ones and some downright awful – just like politicians. Lt Col Christopher Short (Barry)