Fining diners who overload their plates is one way to stop bad buffet behaviour (Emma Beddington, 21 October), but gentler solutions can be just as effective. The French do it well. A favourite local bistro in Saint-Palais-sur-Mer has a sign at the buffet counter, warning customers: “Gluttony is a wicked vice. Please fill your plates with moderation.” It works: I’ve hardly dared help myself to an extra cornichon with my slice of terrine.
William Ham Bevan
Penarth, Vale of Glamorgan
• Four of us travelled from Essex and Suffolk on Wednesday with 2pm timed tickets for Van Gogh at the National Gallery. We were invited to join a long queue around the block; it would have taken hours. We decided to ask for a refund instead. Art lovers beware.
Mike Fitzmaurice
Sudbury, Suffolk
