Letters to the editor

Sir, – Craig Cowan has managed to raise £2000 for Breakthrough Breast Cancer Research by completing a charity cycle from Aberdeen to Newcastle and would like to thank Kilsyth Golden Gloves, Kilsyth 1st Parish BBs, POS, McLanachan Transport, Dale Chalmers, Alicante Trio, Emma and John and all businesses, friends and family who all donated generously; great effort from everyone. – Yours etc.,

CRAIG COWAN

via e-mail

I am writing to let you know about a cancer information and support service your readers can access.

Macmillan Cancer Support has established the service in the Mitchell Library in Glasgow.

And it wants to let local people know they are welcome to attend if they are in the area.

The service is staffed by trained volunteers who can offer a listening ear as well as help people access reliable cancer information.

The volunteers can also refer visitors to benefits advice services, counselling and complementary therapies.

Anyone wishing to use the service can drop in on aTuesday between 10am and 2pm or on a Thursday between 2pm and 6pm. For more information on the service visit www.glasgowlife.org.uk/macmillan or call 0141 287 2942.

To access cancer support over the phone call the Macmillan Support Line on 0808 808 0000. Readers can also visit www.macmillan.org.uk for more information.

Elspeth Atkinson, c/o Macmillan Cancer Support

We know that diplomatic bags must contain all sorts of secret things, but it might come as a surprise to find jewellery inside, and we might be more surprised to learn that sometimes the jewels in question demanded more serious protection.

Those who favour a mechanical wristwatch over a quartz model will know that better models are fitted with jewels – little ruby red discs that help the train of wheels run smoothly.

I am researching this post-war effort by Smiths and am keen to hear from anyone with experience of the company and its operations.

I can be contacted at [email protected] or by mail to The Clock House, 5 Chestnut Road, London SE27 9EZ.

Dr James Nye

King’s College, London