SIR - I don't think I could have ever survived the Second World War without my cigarettes.

They were my first consideration on waking, after every meal and whenever I needed relief or relaxation. Over the years my taste changed and I took to a pipe. That was even more addictive.

People used to tell me they knew I was on my way long before I arrived because they could smell my St Bruno. I used to think that a compliment. Today I imagine how I might now be protesting had I not managed to kick the habit.

Once the habit is broken the smell of other people's smoke becomes utterly repugnant. My clothes reeked for days if I entered premises where smoking was allowed and I purposely avoid them.

Nowadays I never visit my local but content myself with what I have at home in the fridge.

I have every sympathy for smokers who must now curtail the habit but I can only express sincere apologies to thousands of people, including my own family, for what they must have endured as a result of my past indulgence in this diabolical habit.

John Hinton, Worcester.