Sad reflection of our times

RECENTLY an official Post Office card arrived informing me that a letter was being held at the Royston sorting office as its first-class stamp was inadequate – an extra 5 pence was required together with a handling charge of £1. These charges needed to be

RECENTLY an official Post Office card arrived informing me that a letter was being held at the Royston sorting office as its first-class stamp was inadequate - an extra 5 pence was required together with a handling charge of £1.

These charges needed to be paid before the letter could be released.

On phoning the sorting office, I learned that the letter - a greetings card - although within the weight and size of designated letter post, was just over the prescribed 5mm thickness and was classed as large letter: hence the surcharge.

I consider the £1 handling charge outrageous, especially as I am virtually housebound and need someone to collect it for me or buy the necessary stamps to pay the charge.

I consider it a sad reflection of the times that two elderly ladies cannot enjoy the pleasure of exchanging hand-made greetings cards without resorting to electronic scales and cardboard templates.

PATRICIA SHORE

Royston Road, Litlington