I AM mystified by Bryan R Lawson's attack on Lorraine Robinson, who wore a hooded garment on a trip to her local shop as it had been raining, and was refused service (Much hood-do about nothing, letters, November 20).

Mr Lawson misses the point utterly. The woman in question was no "yob" intent on threatening the shop owner or stealing any of his goods.

She is a nurse and mother who has been a York resident for most of her life, and has visited the shop for several years.

I understand the shop owner's intentions to attempt to prevent antisocial behaviour in and around his property at Monkton Road, but in Mrs Robinson's case he has overlooked the most vital rule of all - that of common sense.

Hooded top or no hooded top, a simple smile and joke with a well-known and valued customer would have made light of the situation.

Instead, she was caused considerable embarrassment and distress while trying to buy a morning newspaper, and has taken her business elsewhere.

This policy of tarring everyone with the same brush is one of the main reasons why there is such suspicion and mistrust between different members of society today.

Steve Castle, Brockfield Park Drive, Huntington, York.