I DO trust Mrs L Lightbown's stolen purse (Letters, December 20) was returned to her.

It is very distressing to lose sentimental relics of deceased family. The same happened to me -- in a charity shop.

I am glad her door key or debit card was not available to the thief, which would have meant a new lock and immediate cancellation of card.

The amount of money I had stolen was small and did not matter to me. But even now, two years later, I am aware of people when shopping and carry no identification.

The majority of folk are honest, so I hope the thief returned Mrs Lightbown's purse. Whoever was responsible must have felt remorse and could not enjoy this seasonal time.

SHEILA BRENNAN (Mrs), Bombay Street, Blackburn.