Sir – I must take issue with you on the opening paragraph of your article (December 19) which states that “only 51 people have donated their Winter Fuel Payment to the more needy so far this winter”. At least 52 have!

For seven years, including this one, I have donated my £200 to a number of charities usually locally-based ones connected with the very elderly or the vulnerable. Some years ago, the MacMillan Cancer Support set up a fund, to which I contributed, to support those who are terminally ill, but are below the age threshold and do no qualify for the WFP.

My donations have not been to the Surviving Winter Fund, but I’m sure that others also donate their payments in a similar manner to me and could well take exception to your sweeping statement.

When, some years ago, I first received the WFP and petrol prices were a little lower than they are now, I did a quick calculation and found that my payment would cover the cost of fuel in my BMW for the three winter months. Is this what the Government intended?

Neil Topping, Chalgrove