LIKE many of your readers, I enjoy eating out in Oxford occasionally accompanied by family and friends.

The 12.5 per cent service charge which is now added by so many establishments, whether purchasing a cup of tea and a piece of cake or a three-course meal, has finally taken the pleasure out of the occasion.

I would like to decide whether, and how much, to tip (I am not anti-tipping) and leave the establishments to calculate exactly what they want to change for their food and drinks and then show it clearly on the menu without adding this expensive extra at the end. I know as long as it is a discretionary charge (not compulsory) I could refuse to pay, but who needs the bad feeling on what is a pleasant occasion?

I have continually and reluctantly decided to boycott all these places, and will continue to support all the eating establishments which give me the choice.

I urge all your readers to do the same and well done to all the restaurants/chains/owners who have not gone down this greedy route.

FIONA TAYLOR
Ducklington