Cautionary tale

It IS difficult to understand the motives behind Antony Worrall Thompson’s shoplifting spree (your report, 10 January).

Was it a cry for help, as some experts have stated, or a man getting a buzz from doing something naughty and being conceited enough to believe he wouldn’t get caught?

Admittedly, the behaviour of some women going through the menopause can be unpredictable but Mr Thompson doesn’t fall into that category, nor is he a four-year-old child who doesn’t know right from wrong.

Shoplifting on one occasion could be put down to forgetfulness but committing it on five occasions would suggest some knowledge of his actions.

Other people become depressed but they don’t resort to criminal activities.

My main question is whether a similar shoplifter who was not a “celebrity” would have been let off with a formal police warning?

Bob MacDougall

Kippen

Stirlingshire

Celebrity chef Antony Worrall Thompson is at a loss to explain his shoplifting and claims that it was caused by a psychiatric illness.

As a healthcare professional I can confirm that he is suffering from “PR nightmaritis”.

Fortunately for Mr Thompson, it does not have to be terminal, but unfortunately for him he has already appeared on reality TV show I’m A Celebrity … Get Me Out Of Here.

Participation in a trash reality TV series is widely considered to be the treatment of choice for PR nightmaritis.

Neil Sinclair

Clarence Street

Edinburgh