I know the rules and regulations of this country are daily becoming more and more ludicrous, stupid, inane and preposterous but I do believe I have met the most crass regulation of all.

I took eight bags of coins (silver) of £10 each to the Abbey National branch in Western Road, Brighton, to have the total placed into my wife's account. Simple? Not likely.

I was told, in all seriousness, they are not allowed to take more than five in any one day. The reason? More could create a health hazard.

When I calmed down and asked why, not one person in the branch could give me a reason. They said it was head office policy. Five bags only; more creates a health hazard.

Yet I could, but didn't, go to the Abbey National in George Street, Hove, to deposit the remaining three bags.

Can anyone beat this utterly ridiculous nonsense? Obviously, the Abbey National doesn't need to take in cash from its clients. Maybe we should now go elsewhere.

-Barry J Mishon, Devonshire Place, Brighton