SIR — I have read with great interest the worries of people over the cutbacks in bus transportation.

Do they and others realise that Musgrove Park Hospital dermatology unit, for very unclear reasons, is no longer accepting new referrals?

I have heard it said this is because no-one can be found to work there, but if a department is in need of new staff there has to be the will to engage them.

I have talked at some length to the specialist who is leaving through retirement – a brilliant man – and some of his staff.

The last time was on November 9, when the clinic’s staff were still in the dark as to why this was happening and what their futures were to be.

It has been suggested that anyone with skin problems will need to travel to Bristol, Yeovil, Plymouth or Exeter – not very likely if you are unable to drive a car, disabled, have sight or mobility problems or economic problems.

I cannot imagine myself being able to afford to go to Bristol or the other hospitals – and the thought of a young mother with a small child or children in with chronic eczema, or a frail elderly person, trying to do so does not bear thinking about.

Musgrove is our county hospital. What is going on? This is madness.

Lynda Hedge,

the Cross,