I am writing to moan about the Royal Mail compensation limits.

Thank you Post Office. Some time ago I thought I would do my bit for Help for Heroes, so I decided to make some pens to give to the injured troops that are recuperating in this country. I made 40 pens from kits that I then packaged up in a secure box, which I taped up fully and addressed them to Downton, near Salisbury, with return address.

Sent recorded delivery, upon checking with Downton they never received them. I sent off a claim for them to the post office along with photographic proof of the pens, only to get a letter back saying: ‘Sorry, done as much as they can, here’s 12 stamps.’ So I am down financially for the pens and, as I am unable to work due to a back condition, I can’t afford to redo my offer.

I now feel embarrassed, for after contacting Downton and offering the pens, for reasons outside my control, I cannot fulfil my offer.

ROGER CROOK Bracegirdle Road Headington Oxford