MANY complain about the slow demise of local street shops due to the forever increasing demand of internet shopping. My answer is, they have only got themselves to blame.

I have lost count of the times I have set off into town to purchase certain much needed items and have returned home exhausted and empty-handed. In summer I get told: “This is only our winter stock.” Yet in winter I am told yet again: “I know it’s winter but we sell for the season ahead.”

For instance, today I considered, planned and set off to purchase a beanie hat. They seem to be popular worldwide. They are worn on ski slopes, mountain or rock climbing and by those who choose to trek our landscapes. The beanie is well-favoured by police and military forces worn under their helmets. So today, I set off to purchase one at my local town. I went into every store, including sports and charity shops. I did not find one beanie for sale. I came home very disillusioned but then Googled beanie. I got many hits and managed to order one costing less than £4, including delivery in four days.

That’s why shops are closing and internet shopping is gaining. Via Google we can get anything we want and seasons never come into it.

CHRISTINE PETERS, Wellington Rd, Bournemouth