IN REGARD to the letter criticising prices in charity shops (Price Is Wrong, News Shopper, September 6).

Some years ago, News Shopper published a letter I wrote expressing how greedy I felt our charity shops have become.

This sparked a debate in which it became apparent charities had lost sight of what they are supposed to be about.

Nothing has changed, these shops often still charge the earth for what people have donated.

Often you can buy the same items cheaper on the high street. When pricing, I'm sure they think of a number and add a nought.

Registered charities enjoy massively reduced business rates and exploit the old-fashioned volunteer bossed around by salaried managers trained to turn the shops into profitable businesses.

I have lost count of the times I have witnessed people bringing in donations only to be greeted with hostile glares from the staff and not a word of thanks.

With an abundance of car boot and jumble sales on offer, I am surprised these outfits are still in business.

C Grace, Gload Crescent, Orpington