SPEAKING as a person in her seventies who often needs help with light duty jobs both indoors and out, I am amazed at the hourly rate charged by some workmen for this service, particularly since it is unlikely that Income Tax or National Insurance are being paid out of the cash-in-hand arrangements.

From my experience those guilty of jumping on the bandwagon fall into three categories.

First, those in full-time employment willing to work extra hours for many different reasons.

Second, pensioners who are still active and seem to regard odd-jobbing as a ‘nice little earner’ as they often charge rates which they wouldn’t be earning if still in employment.

Third, those who offer gardening services but with little knowledge of plants , shrubs or trees , and are really just lawn mowers.

We are grateful to those who offer their services for the jobs which are too small for professionals , however, please don’t rip us off, either charge fairer rates or provide an invoice and pay the tax which should be paid.

E Turton,

Droitwich