READER L. Taylor of Wallasey (Mail Box, December 25) and others are too young to appreciate what us older pensioners endured in the 1939-45 War.

Yes, we were the lucky ones. We returned, while many did not, to enjoy and appreciate these concessions in our old age, thanks to the government.

I fought for my country with many others to give L. Taylor and others the freedom to criticise us old age pensioners, and also for the fire fighters to have the right to strike.

We were also the pioneers of the Health Service, paying our full dues right from the start, but I suppose L. Taylor resents the treatments we now need in our old age.

J. Whitehead (address supplied)