Give De’ath his due

SIR: Wilfred is not an unpleasant character, as claimed by Mr Bootle (May issue) but is more of a national treasure. His life has been troubled by unpleasant events, from which he has emerged with spirit and strength. He has cut a few corners in acceptable behaviour, but who would not in his circumstances?

Surely, as the average Oldie reader sits in his comfortable house, he can be truly grateful he is not in the same situation as Wilfred. ‘There but for the grace of God…’ Paul Hornby, Dartington, Devon