Don't ruin the shopping experience

Jan 7 2010 West Lothian Courier

MY husband, son, mother-in-law (who has difficulty walking long distances) and I went to The Centre and McArthur Glen in Livingston on Monday, December 28.

Not having experience of using the wheelchair service, I phoned The Centre beforehand to enquire about borrowing a wheelchair for my mother-in-law only to be told that Shopmobility (the wheelchair provider) was closed until January 5.

Thankfully, the helpful assistant advised me that wheelchairs were available from MG who I phoned immediately and asked for a wheelchair to be put aside for us.

I'm glad I phoned ahead about the wheelchair otherwise we would have spent a lot of time and effort finding out how to get one.

We went to M&S and my mother-in-law wanted to try on a pair of trousers only to be told that because the shop was so busy the changing rooms were closed. Unbelievable. Very poor.

A special mention must go to the young guy who delivered exemplary service when we arrived and parked the car. The ground was very icy and potentially dangerous. He asked if he could help my mother-in-law and we explained we had reserved a wheelchair. He immediately went and brought the wheelchair to us. Thank you very much.

My point here – if it's not already obvious – is that the sales have started and thousands of people are eager to shop for bargains.

It's beyond belief that all services are not available to the customers. I'm actually a supporter of the retail developments in Livingston. There is a fantastic range of shops and eateries – I really enjoy going there.

To all management: don't ruin the shopping experience by not providing the service deserved by all customers.

Louise Foster

Mallace Avenue

Armadale