Postal Scissorhands

SIR – Like Philip Jarrett (Letters, August 22), I had a parcel refused by the post office as it was tied up with string, which was not allowed because “it would wreck the machines”.

I had tied up a birthday present for my nephew with colourful red and white string and I put sticky tape over the places where the strings crossed.

The lady at the post office counter was very helpful and kindly cut off all the string that wasn’t stuck down with tape before accepting the parcel.

My nephew was somewhat bemused to receive a parcel covered in red and white tags. Perhaps he thought his aunt had had a senior moment. Barbara Dye Harpenden, Hertfordshire

SIR – My wife bought string and wrapping paper in a post office in Penarth and, having paid for it, wrapped up her parcel in full view of the staff, then returned to the counter to post it, only to be told it could not be sent as it was wrapped in string. Dr Robert Jones Cardiff