Hard bargains

STAFF in large department stores certainly earn their wages in the sales.

From the doors opening you are accosted by pushy customers asking questions and demanding this size and that pattern. Tea breaks and lunchtimes have to be taken in any lull before returning to the bedlam. Despite the management putting you under pressure to reach targets, you have to be polite and charming at all times.

After the doors close, there is cashing up and restocking before, with aching legs, you can breathe fresh air.

In front of the TV cameras, the store manager beams: ‘We have had our best results ever.’ The staff return home late at night and then have to do it all again the next day. BARRY CARROLL, London SE28.