I WOULD not normally write in as I believe in the adage of 'actions speak louder than words'.

However, in response to the letter from Tricia Fouque (February 6) I felt some background information would help.

The young lady Big Issue seller is new to Barnards Green. Previously the position was held by a gentleman who sold successfully on a Friday.

She is now selling on a Wednesday and is establishing her pitch.

On that day, thankfully, she was able to both charge her mobile phone and heat her food in the microwave at Elite Repairs.

I and my fellow Barnards Green traders believe strongly in identifying and supporting the most vulnerable people in our communities.

We see at first hand genuine economic deprivation. This is why we have collected for the food bank for the last 18 months.

It is also why we have consistently fund raised over the last seven years and raised more than 11,000 for sick and vulnerable adults and children living locally.

We also as a group believe in supporting entrepreneurial initiative at whatever level.

I applaud the highlighting of this issue, but would like to reassure Ms Fouque that we are on the same side.

Jane Knowles

Just So

Barnards Green