Sir, – I was just about to put pen to paper about the disappointing practice of people not returning a greeting when out walking, when I read Brian McIntyre's lovely article about the five things he learned while cycling through the Irish midlands ("What I learned while cycling through the Irish midlands", August 8th). Number two on his list was the kindness of people and the time they spend "chatting with strangers".
I always believed Irish people were generally friendly but this summer I have noticed a marked change while on my daily walks. A very high percentage, in my opinion, not only don’t return a cheery hello, but they won’t even make eye contact. I don’t know why and it makes me a little sad. I’m glad Brian McIntyre’s experience in the midlands was different. – Yours, etc,
MARY FOLEY,
Leixlip,
Co Kildare.