I WAS fortunate enough, as an NHS healthcare professional, to shop at 7.30am.

Well done, Sainsbury’s – there was an orderly queue with all maintaining social distancing.

The cashier told me how she still felt anxious and vulnerable as one elderly gentleman had spat in her face on the previous day as he was not allowed more than three items. This is abuse and assault and should not be tolerated.

Imagine my horror trying to exit just after 8am to be met by this tsunami of ‘vulnerable’ shoppers. They overwhelmed staff, rammed trolleys into others and prevented my exit.

No-one was maintaining a two-metre distance and some frail shoppers were nearly knocked over.

Wake up, shoppers – this virus is REAL. Stocks are being replenished as soon as available, and yes, not all items are available. But keep your distance and respect others.

Some of these shoppers have lived through rationing. Lives are at risk and abusive behaviour should not be tolerated.

Virtual hugs to all Sainsbury’s staff and my healthcare colleagues in these challenging times.

And my thanks to all considerate Altonians. We will get through this.

* By J Thomas, Medstead