I CONSIDER myself a tough-looking character because of the tattoos on my arms, hands and neck.

The other Wednesday I was sitting on a bench in the three-day market in Blackburn when a little old lady in her late seventies sat next to me and asked me for 20p towards the purchase of your newspaper. I was astounded.

She said she had no money because she had just paid her bills -- She was genuine.

I only had a couple of quid left so I gave her a pound. If I'd had more I would have given it to her. I offered to help her, etc, but she said no, she was OK.

What's wrong with this country, this society, this government? The old age pension should be at least £100 a week.

ALAN MURPHY, Mulberry Walk, Blackburn.