SIR – I refer to the letter “Couldn’t offenders maintain gardens?” (T&A, July 7).

I am assuming Mrs Fairbank is referring to the grounds of the Leeds Road Hospital, not to the grounds of the Marie Curie Hospice.

Although we use the same main gate for the Marie Curie Hospice, the establishments and grounds are very separate and the Hospice gardens are cared for by four very hard-working volunteers.

They maintain the grounds to a very high standard, providing all-year interest and colour for our patients, visitors and staff.

Our patients have access from their rooms to the beautiful lawned area with colourful flower beds interspersed with bird tables and boxes.

During the lovely spell of weather, patients have been able to have their beds outside, and it has also been wonderful for visitors to enjoy the lovely open space looking over the city in the distance.

Our gardens play an important role in the well-being of our patients, and as they come into full summer bloom, they are an absolute joy.

The Leeds Road Hospital did, in fact, close down a few months, hence the reason for the somewhat overgrown flower beds, but patients are no longer cared for on the premises.

Brenda Doyle, Community Fundraisng Manager, Marie Curie Cancer Care