I AM over in Britain visiting from Canada for three months.

At Christmas I was in Marks and Spencer in Broadstone, I was stood at a very busy till, and got chatting to a very nice gentleman about this and that.

He asked where I came from, because of my accent, and I told him Canada.

We chatted on (the queue was long).

When it was my turn to go through the checkout and pay. I suddenly realised I didn’t have my purse (handbag) with me.

At first I panicked as it had all my identification and money in, he could see I was upset and asked could he help.

I then realised that I had left my purse in the car of the ride I got to the shop and declined his kind offer.

I started to take back the groceries at the checkout.

He said no, and insisted on paying for them, said have it as a British Christmas present.

He wouldn’t take no for an answer. I was so appreciative.

I asked his name and all he would tell me was Tony, I then realised that the lady behind him, was actually with him and turned out to be his daughter.

I asked for his name and address so I could pay him back, but he just told me it was a Merry Christmas from Britain.

I thanked him profusely, but was determined to find him, and managed to get from his daughter his full name, which is Tony Douglas, and that he lived in Parkstone.

I have tried to trace him, but to no avail.

I hope you print this little story, because this act of random kindness warmed my heart, and the hearts of everyone I have told.

So Tony Douglas, Marks & Spencer Christmas shopper, thank you for your kindness from the bottom of my heart.

CAROL HARRADINE

Vancouver Island, Canada