AS Victor Meldrew says "I could not believe it" when I saw the picture in the BEN of Father Christmas tied up by youngsters to get money -- one of them holding a screwdriver to Santa's throat, another with pliers to his nose.

This is how the evil scum in our society get cash after breaking into people's homes, often ending in murder.

We ought not to be leading youngsters down this road. The person who started this stunt should be locked away as insane. Also anyone giving to this collection should be ashamed. It's disgusting.

Once again -- "I could not believe it".

Norman Hart

Ladybridge Lane,

Bolton.