REFERENCING to my letter 'Barmy Benefits' published in the Review w/e June 10. I now have a provisional date for my Hip Replacement, Wed­nesday July 13. I informed Job Centre Plus when I signed on for JSA on Tuesday, June 14. I enquired about the Going Back on to Employment Support Allowance, (ESA). I was informed I would have to sign on for JSA as usual on Tuesday July 12 (to receive benefit) after that I would have to sign off JSA. I was informed I could not apply for ESA on that day because I would still be fit for work! I would have to apply for ESA on?Wednesday July 13, Operation Day!

This would involve a 40 minute phone call from the hospital.

I suppose I could make the call from the Operating Theatre, as the operation is carried out using 'Regional Anaesthesia (Nerve black). At least it would take my mind off the surgery.

I don't suppose the surgeon would be very impressed!

– Name and address supplied, Coleford.