SIR ­— Recently, a much-loved family pet had reached “the end”. We did not arrive at the veterinary surgery in time and the dog passed away in my wife’s arms.

The nurse asked if we would keep Bobby just a few minutes so he could be transferred straight into the practice vehicle.

After a while my wife suggested it would be nice to capture a paw-print before we said goodbye. All we needed was an inkpad and some paper/card ­— but from where?

We were by Clayton Village Hall and I recall a DIY store being across from the park ­— worth a try. But the store was not trading any more.

Nearby was a tattoo establishment ­— the word “ink” caught my eye. I went in and apologised in advance for the weird request, but could we loan some ink and card, if possible? When I explained why, the young lady said: “Give me two minutes and I will come over to your car.” And she did just that. She said: “Sorry but the ink I have here is not quite right for this. I will be back again in two minutes.” Return once more she did and she quickly took two superb impressions on card. Any payment was politely turned down.

Thank you, thank you Janie from The Ink Emporium ­— a shining and tender light on an otherwise dark day.

John Murphy, Cooper Lane, Bradford