Sir, – May we take this opportunity to publicly thank all the marvellous people who helped my husband and me when we were involved in a car accident at Thornton le Street.

Yorkshire Air Ambulance, the fire service, the North Yorkshire Ambulance Service and the police all acted quickly and effectively, but particular mention should go to the off-duty police lady who so kindly held me while the fire service cut me out from our car.

The medical staff at James Cook and the Friarage (including the Armed Services members at the latter) and the Lambert have all played their part in easing what has been a dreadful experience.

Since returning home, our friends in and around Thirsk have been pillars of strength.

How lucky we are to have people like these around us.

MARJORIE & PETER HUTCHINSON Thirsk.