Beat the crunch at Ramon's; VIEWPOINTS.

I'D LIKE to give praise to the local greasy spoon - Ramon's at Salisbury Road, Cardiff.

I have often referred to Ramon's as "the students' saviour", as their helpings of food are plentiful but reasonably priced.

It is a place frequented mainly by students and workmen, plus families and a sprinkling of pensioners, like myself. If it is a good sunny day many of the students like to have their meals in the garden at the back of the caf. They sometimes take their tins of beer, purchased locally, with them to drink with their meal.

The proprietors are always so helpful to their customers and particularly during the last few hot days.

As well as their reasonably priced menu, they have added food under the heading of "Credit Crunch Meals". I have just sampled one - steak and onion pie with beans and chips. I asked for gravy on the pie and it was as much as I could eat. It was really tasty and cost only pounds 2. All the meals under the heading of "Credit Crunch Meals" are just pounds 2. Amazing! Additionally, for families, they provide low-cost children's meals. I must admit, on a Sunday, when I am not desperately hungry, I have ordered a (cheaper) child's meal for myself as it is adequate and good.

My son and I go there regularly as at the age of 82 I do not cook as often as I used to. Anyway, I believe it is cheaper to go to Ramon's as the cost of buying the ingredients for a meal, plus the cost of the gas used, would probably cost more than eating out.

Even so, it is much more fun going to Ramon's, where we can meet people and the staff are especially attentive to their regulars.

My son was not with me today as he was attending a once-a-week course for people with learning difficulties, learning how to cook for himself.

I must praise social services too, for this opportunity, as it will help him to look after himself when I am gone.

Barbara MacArthur Cranbrook Street Cardiff