AS a recent volunteer for one of the many cancer charities that are sadly required, I'm aware of a common theme during its bucket collections in the regular public locations visited.

I have noticed the sad difference between the generous, interactive, and friendly donations given by many more lower-earning, working-class people.

Without wanting to stereotype those who kindly give their money while passing, it is clear there is a section of society whose ignorant attitude, and lack of generosity is truly disheartening.

I refer to those who seem to be the highest earners, mostly middle-aged men, often in suits.

They barely look at, never mind donate to, the volunteers collecting for charities, something they can more easily afford to do.

It is not until our own loved ones, be they husbands, wives, partners, or family members, fall ill that we fully comprehend the great benefits of cancer charities in all that they provide.

That help can come in the form of support groups, counselling, complementary therapies and stress management. Public donations are an essential key element to ensuring people with cancer continue to have access to these services.

So the next time you pass a charity collection, show mercy, be generous and remember every year in Scotland 30,000 people are told they have cancer.

Jill Ferguson,

1/1, 6 Crow Road,

Partick,

Glasgow.