Sir – Distributing leaflets in the recent election campaigns I have learnt that some makes of letterbox are a menace.

The older models present no problem, unless they are concealed under the door-knocker. Some fitted almost at floor level involve bending down.

Modern ones, however, especially those in the standard plastic door that is fitted to many houses, make it extremely difficult to insert any paper without crunching it up, because of the brushes that are fitted behind. Some, indeed, are positively dangerous because of the strong springs fitted to the flaps. One actually closed on my wife’s hand drawing blood on one finger and bruising the nail, the black mark on which has yet to grow out.

I pity the poor “posties” who have to deal with these: they should be banned. External mail-boxes would be a boon.

John Graham, Shipton-under-Wychwood