Charity bag packers verbally abused

It seems that there was a serious case of ‘bah humbug’ from a minority of customers at a local supermarket who allegedly verbally abused teenage bag packers trying to raise money.

Welshpool Air Cadets aged between 12-17 years were bag packing at the Morrison’s store in the town on Saturday, trying to raise money to fund activities and equipment for the squadron.

But the Squadron Commander said that a small minority tarnished the day.

“These activities develop young people into being strong leaders with great initiative and confidence,” said Keiron Cornell.

“Unfortunately, my cadets were subjected to verbal abuse and intimidation from some customers of the store. My cadets were sworn at and insulted and they finished the bag packing feeling upset because of a small number of those customers.

“Certain people didn’t agree that the cadets should pack their bags but they always have a choice to say ‘no thank-you’.

“They also didn’t agree that the cadets should fundraise for themselves and should be raising money for more ‘deserving charities’.

“When one cadet tried to explain what the donations would be used for, she was met with a few cuss words and overall disagreement!”

However, Keiron said the vast majority of customers were friendly and added that Morrisons were extremely supportive. They also held a successful bag packing today in Tesco with customers being very supportive too.

“Everyone at 2364 Welshpool Squadron would like to say a huge thank-you to all those people that very kindly gave a donation to the cadets. Every penny raised makes a big difference to what we can deliver to our cadets.”