A long-awaited family Christmas thrown into doubt by ruthlessly timed strike action

SIR – My husband and I have not spent Christmas in Britain for seven years, as we live in Spain. But this year, postpandemic, we wanted to come back to visit our children.

Assuming we arrive, which has been thrown into doubt by the Border Force strike plans (report, December 8), we have family events booked – carols by candlelight on Christmas Eve at the Albert Hall and the Abba experience on December 27.

Now, because of the rail strikes, we might not make it to either event. We have paid more than £500 for tickets. Apart from the disappointment, will we be given our money back if we can’t get there?

Do the unions seriously believe that they will gain support by ruining the public’s Christmas ?

Louise Bartley

Jávea, Alicante, Spain

SIR – Britain’s Armed Forces personnel have always risen to the task without complaint. Now the Prime Minister has confirmed that many will lose their Christmases as they stand in for striking public-sector workers who are demanding pay rises that the country cannot afford.

Any additional money should go to them.

Joe Exon

Corsham, Wiltshire

SIR – I have some sympathy with strikers, but they are not the only ones facing difficult circumstances. The whole country is being affected by supply disruption, rising interest rates and Vladimir Putin’s abhorrent war in Ukraine.

Striking at this moment can be seen only as an attempt to place strikers’ demands above everyone else’s needs. Nick Green

Devizes, Wiltshire

SIR – What has become of the season of peace and goodwill toward men? Chris Broadley

Walmer, Kent