BILLINGS v. SOUTHSIDE HOSPITAL

Order affirmed, with costs.

The issue at the hearing was whether or not the defendant Dr. Chernick was personally served with a summons and complaint at his office in Bay Shore on August 4, 1983.

The testimony on this issue was conflicting and presented a pure question of credibility which was resolved in favor of Dr. Chernick. This determination, based upon the hearing court's opportunity to observe the witnesses, is entitled to deference, and we see no reason to disturb it (see, Occhiuzzi v Occhiuzzi, 108 A.D.2d 799; Feeney v Booth Mem. Med. Center, 109 A.D.2d 865; Altman v Wallach, 104 A.D.2d 391). Mollen, P.J., Lazer, Thompson and Kunzeman, JJ., concur.