SIR: I was surprised and shocked recently to hear from one of the assistants in the Sainsbury store in town that the staff have had to put up with complaints and verbal abuse on a daily basis during the past few weeks.

This behaviour is inexcusable, these people have been working their socks off to keep us supplied with essential goods through out a very difficult time. They deserve praise not abuse, where would we all be if they had not been there for us.

Perhaps the people guilty of this despicable behaviour should ask themselves what they have done to help others over the last few months.

Many thanks to all the workers who have kept us going during the past few months.

Toni Weekley,

St Cross Road,

Winchester