Readers respond to an article by Martin Kettle about a lost wallet and restored faith in human nature I can readily confirm Martin Kettle’s points (Need cheering up after a terrible year? I may have just the story you’re looking for, 28 December). I tripped up while last-minute Christmas shopping in Nailsworth on Christmas Eve; couldn’t move, very painful. The passersby and staff from a nearby shop were helpful and sympathetic. They must have been busy, but they freely gave me their time and cheered me up. The ambulance came quickly and the amazing paramedics correctly assessed my problem, getting me to Southmead hospital in Bristol. X-rays showed that I had broken my femur near the hip joint and needed a hip joint replacement. Surgery was successfully completed on Christmas Day. I have been fully supported by all manner of services stepping up sequentially. It’s been excellent all round, all of the staff and the public absolutely marvellous. The best of this country’s people and its health service. Phil Bloomfield Wotton-under-Edge, Gloucestershire Continue reading...