DEAR EDITOR, - For women who live in Pembrokeshire and Cardiganshire, ward two, Withybush Hospital, has been the only ward in the hospital which specifically cares for women undergoing gynaecological treatment.

Now, the ward has closed to make way for a new endoscopy and admission unit. Yes, we have to move forward and expand, but not at the expense of a 16-bed gynaecology ward which over the years has given valuable care to women since it opened in 1979, when it had 30 beds.

Local women are now to be cared for on a surgical ward with ten beds allocated for gynaecology patients.

How long will it be before these patients will have to travel to, and be treated at West Wales Hospital, Carmarthen, as there will be no beds or the expertise of gynaecology nurses at Withybush?

Mrs Anne Baker 55 Baring Gould Way, Haverfordwest.