I READ with concern the story: A Year's Supply of junk - in just three weeks, which appeared in your paper recently.

I have every sympathy with the families who are receiving large quantities of unwanted mail, apparently as a result of the malicious actions of a prankster.

Given the circumstances, this particular nuisance may be difficult to stop in the short term. However, there is action these families can take to stop the problem continuing in the long term. They should write to the Mailing Preference Service, Department AM, FREEPOST 22, London W1E 7EZ, and request an application form which will allow them to ask for their names and addresses to be removed from mailing lists.

The Mailing Preference Service is a free service funded by Direct Mail users, supported by Royal Mail and the Data Protection Registrar. It gives people control over whether or not they receive advertising mail. Indeed, it can also let consumers choose the type of material they do want delivered to their homes.

It is the first time I have heard of the type of prank described in your story, but I recognise that any form of unwanted mail can be an inconvenience. Royal Mail is working hard with the Direct Marketing industry to ensure that advertising mail is properly targeted. It is in no one's interests to send mail to people who do not want to receive it and who have no interest in the products being advertised. On the other hand, many people welcome the right type of direct marketing which matches their interests and keeps them informed about the latest goods, offers and services.

Frank Hogan

Area Operations Manager

Royal Mail

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