I HAD to visit the toilet of a local supermarket this week. I was unable to find any hand soap to wash my hands, so approached customer services who stated that the machine had been broken and a replacement had been ordered.

I asked for some liquid soap – there are many brands available.

I was told that, due to health and safety, the supermarket would not able to supply me some in case somebody had an allergic reaction to it!

What about my health and safety as germs may have been lurking on my hands as a result of not washing properly.

Health and safety has gone mad and is ruining this country.

Peter Hall, Bishop Auckland