SIR - I was particularly interested in the letter from C Garner (Letters, November 30) concerning his family connection with Norton barracks.

I was able to recognise his father as my first salesman and mentor when I went to work at a tailor's shop at the age of 14. Mr Garner would probably be interested to know that when peace time conscription was introduced in 1938 or 1939 our head office secured the contract to equip the militiamen, as the conscripts were termed, with a smart walking-out attire comprising blazer and flannels.

In consequence I had to accompany his father to Norton barracks for purposes of measuring and fitting. There was no questioning his familiarity with the barracks or that he was immediately recognised and remembered by many old timers. Once our business was done the visit turned into more of a social occasion.

Our ways soon parted because a rival company offered me a wage I could not refuse but I was aware his father became manager and went on to serve in the Army before returning to the same firm soon after the war.

We did meet up from time to time over the years and had many a laugh reminiscing over old times. Now there was a real old Worcester character.

John Hinton, Worcester.