SIR Good 'Samaritans' are alive and well. On the last Saturday before Christmas, a friend of mine suggested that as I would be indulging in some alcoholic beverages at my club, the safest option would be for him to use his car to take me there.

SIR - Good 'Samaritans' are alive and well.On the last Saturday before Christmas, a friend of mine suggested that as I would be indulging in some alcoholic beverages at my club, the safest option would be for him to use his car to take me there.An offer I was happy to accept. The only thing wrong with this idea was, he omitted to say, he wouldn't be available to take me home.I only realised this tragedy at closing time, which was a bit late to try calling for a taxi.For the last seven years that we have lived here, I have never been on a bus, so I thought I would try it out.It was at the stop that I got talking to a young couple and, as we talked, I happened to mention that as a pensioner, I was regretting not carrying my Bus Pass, which would have meant I could travel free.When the bus arrived, the couple boarded before me. It was then that the young lady turned to the driver and said 'I will pay this gentleman's fare for him'.What a smashing thing to do for a complete stranger, especially as I had more than sufficient funds to pay for my journey.This gesture gave me a 'feel good' feeling that lasted right through Christmas. Since we moved to Sidmouth in 2001, we have only met with a kindness and friendship that we never experienced back where we came from. We really do love living in Sidmouth. Even though we are 'incomers' we have always been made to feel welcome.My wife and I would love this couple to have a drink with us as a thank you.I think the lady said her name was Rachel and at one time worked at our local Waitrose.And a Happy New Year to you and your staff for a super local paper.Ted ButlerWoolbrook RoadSidmouth