Isn't it absolutely disgraceful that, after a lifetime of National Insurance contributions, a pensioner can be denied sight-saving NHS treatment? (The Pensioners left in the dark', Echo, May 9).

The NHS should take the rough with the smooth; there must be many taxpayers that rarely visit their GP and, perhaps, are never admitted to hospital.

We all pay our taxes and should expect to receive the appropriate medical treatment when it is necessary.

Peter Watson, Manor Road, Dorchester,