A FEW weeks ago, I drew attention to the number of people not using their booked appointments at the doctor’s surgery and then omitting to cancel when not required, or forgetting, thus denying genuine patients a much-needed appointment.

Such a simple task. The Advertiser then took up the story.

I now learn the latest figure is higher this month at 142 unused appointments.

Some, no doubt, have genuine reasons but most I would wager have just not bothered to cancel. Even with a gadget welded to their hand.

I suggest these non-appearances are fined £10 a time and failure to pay would lead to being struck off the doctors’ lists.

A well-placed boot up the derriere is required as some people need to be shaken out of their inconsiderate lifestyle.

John Porter, Millway Road, Andover