• I WANTED to thank John Gulliver for his kind words of praise for our staff who have been caring for and supporting his wife during her illness in his article, (Unique and inspiring – our NHS, July 5).

I can assure him that we celebrated the 70th anniversary of the NHS in style on July 5, when staff, patients, volunteers and visitors came together to mark this momentous occasion. We took part in the national NHS Big 7Tea events, with a tea party kindly sponsored by the Royal Free Charity.

Hundreds of people joined us to share their memories of the NHS and we were delighted to welcome our MP Tulip Siddiq. We also took the opportunity to celebrate the many nationalities represented across our hospital with staff pulling out flags, national costumes and taking part in photo shoots.

I would like to wish John Gulliver and his wife all the very best and hope that they continue to see the dedication and commitment of our staff on every visit.

KATE SLEMECK
Chief executive,
Royal Free Hospital, NW3