I HAVE served as a hospital governor for the past six years and loved every minute.

But now, because I have completed my two three-year terms of office, I have to stand down.

I think the constitution should be changed as many volunteers, like me, would like to help for longer.

I have a lot more to give.

I have enjoyed going round Halton and Warrington hospitals meeting staff and patients and listening to what they have to say.

I have inspected wards and picked up on various points.

We act as a watchdog. Governors are the voice of the people, staff, patients and visitors.

It has been really interesting sitting on various committees, scrutinising finances and running costs.

It takes the first couple of years to get used to all the medical terminology and jargon.

It is a huge organisation.

I have found the whole experience very rewarding.

The trust is now trying to find 16 new governors because so many of us have to stand down.

Hospitals in other parts of the country allow governors to serve for longer than six years.

It would save money and time if they let us do the same.

Roy Radley

Farnworth