I JUST had to reply to the letter by 'Angry' in the Star (February 4).

While sympathising with him over the incident that happened, I would like to speak up for the elderly I meet while shopping in St Helens.

As I am of the next age of senior citizens and very often sit talking to the elderly when I sit down for a little rest after shopping in both the Hardshaw Centre and St Mary's shopping precinct.

I can only say how interesting they are to talk to (very often reminiscing over the past) and I usually find it difficult to tear myself away.

They give me a friendly greeting, move up on a seat for me and generally make me feel welcome. In fact, obviously because young people find it difficult to talk to strangers, etc., I'm relieved when I find it is an elderly man or woman I am sitting next to.

Also I believe pensioners DO own part of this town and if 'Angry' took the trouble and time to find out what I have known for a long time, he wouldn't be as angry. Also, if he thought about how many aches and pains must hide behind an elderly person's smile (or frown) from when they get out of bed in a morning, he wouldn't be so quick to generalise. I'm so pleased that concessionary travel is available because a lot of them would be prisoners in their own homes during the day, as well as night.

Also, has he thought that some of them might have no one to visit them from one week to another. Thank God they are not waiting for him to visit them.

Mrs Pat Cain, Haydock.

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