Sir – I feel it necessary to draw readers’ attention to a worrying activity regarding the random dropping of charity bags through letter boxes.

There is no doubt donating to charity is becoming more widespread as a result of the delivery of bags directly into homes. It is a simple and effective way to support these organisations.

However, my concern is that Bradford people may be under the mistaken impression the items they donate will generate significant funds which will then go directly to the charity. I regularly get bags from recognised and bona fide organisations and I am free to choose which to support. With the YMCA, 50 per cent of profits made from the shop go directly to fund activities in Bradford.

Most of the bags posted claim to be charity bags – some however are posted by textiles companies which only give a small amount to charity. Householders should look for the ‘Gift Aid’ logo on the bag.

This is something only registered charities can do and it means any taxpayer who donates will give the equivalent of an extra 28p on the £1, and all the money goes to charity.

Jan Lee, Board Member, YMCA, Culture Fusion, Thornton Road, Bradford