I was pleased to see Glasgow city centre shops were busy in the days before Christmas despite the terrible weather ('1000s in High St dash to splash the cash', December 24).

I was in town myself on Sunday and, although it was very busy, I was afraid many shoppers may have chosen the undercover, out-of-town shopping centres for their final gift purchases, putting yet another nail in the coffin for the so-called Style Mile.

I guess we won't know for sure until the figures come out, but I hope the seasonal spending will signal a boost for Sauchiehall Street, Argyle Street and Buchanan Street. The atmosphere, despite the rain, was buzzing in the city and I don't think any out of town mall can beat it.

Mary Reid

Dennistoun

I WAS interested to read your article on the successful Nitezone city centre safety scheme where taxi marshals, extra police officers and CCTV cover the busiest taxi ranks.

After a night out in Glasgow during the festive period, I used the Gordon Street rank, and was very impressed to see the Nitezone is action.

Nitezone has made the city centre, and getting home at night, much safer, as well as cutting down waiting times and rows in the queue.

J Sinclair

Shawlands

Like many others, I've been in Glasgow doing my Christmas shopping since the start of December.

I've watched people push in front of each other in queues, put masses of toys on their credit card and carry tonnes of bags around town.

But I've yet to see a single person stop and buy a copy of the Big Issue.

It worries me that people are willing to spend so much money on disposable gifts and not part with money for a product which helps the homeless.

I urge readers to think about other people and make a small gesture to help those who aren't as lucky as us, especially at this time of year.

Jackie Lawson

Bishopbriggs