BE GOOD TO SHOP STAFF

# The run-up to Christmas can be frantic, trying to get everything ready for the big day.

I want to gently remind readers to remember that shop workers are people as well who will be working really hard to make your shopping experience as stress-free as possible.

A recent Usdaw survey showed that a shop worker is abused every minute and incidents are more frequent during the Christmas period.

Talking to members, I know that verbal abuse cuts deep. Many go home after a shift upset about an unpleasant incident.

That is why Usdaw, the shopworkers’ union, is running a Respect for Shopworkers campaign, asking customers to “Keep your Cool at Christmas”. It’s a simple message, remembering shop workers are working extra hard at this time. John Hannett, general secretary, Usdaw

# Karen Matthews must accept the consequences of her actions after the cruel treatment of her daughter during the fake kidnapping. I, and many more people, will have no sympathy for Karen – she made her bed and she must lie in it. Janice Prescott, Bristol # What is the Government going to do about the Bedroom Tax? My wife and I are on income support and we are finding it almost impossible to pay the extra £15 a week out of our benefits. We can’t keep on doing this. I sincerely hope it will be abolished soon. Alistair Tannock Birmingham # Congratulations to David and Lynne Lewis from Cwmdare, Aberdare who celebrate their golden wedding anniversary today.