I was appalled at the news that St Peter's Hospice is to spend approximately £43,000 over three years to replace their shop signs (EP Sat October 17).

I was recently having a conversation with staff in their Downend shop when I questioned their policy of charging such high prices for some of their second-hand clothes, when one can go into shops in Broadmead and buy brand new items in the sale for much less.

I was told St Peter's need all the money they can get as the Downend shop is to be refurbished, possibly other shops as well.

My reaction was total dismay that the charity should be considering refurbishment as the shop is in very good condition, the flooring looks new and the shop is well stocked.

As someone who has spent money in raising money for, and donating to, various charities over the past 40 years I find it disturbing that such hard-gained money should be spent in such a wasteful way instead of going straight to the patients who are most in need of the money in their hour of need. In this economic climate when the general public are trying to make ends meet, it is truly heart warming as a charity collector to see older people and young children putting their money in the collection tins. I would urge all charities please don't betray people's trust by wasting their cash by doing up shops and replacing shop signs.

Ann Harrison (charity collector) Kingswood Bristol