As an ex-Second World War evacuee, I find the attitude of certain Saltdean residents to asylum seekers disturbing (The Argus, January 11).

Many of us were evacuated to avoid being killed or maimed by the V-1 bombardment of the South of England.

We arrived in Wales where, in spite of many people speaking a different language, we were accepted with great kindness.

Of course, there were rumours that evacuees were unwashed, infested with fleas and did not know how to use a knife and fork.

There may have been a grain of truth somewhere in these allegations but I saw no sign of it.

The Saltdean residents have a right to feel there may be a few bad eggs among the asylum seekers but they will be very few.

Now Sangatte has been closed, the situation regarding accommodation has changed since assurances were given over the use of the Grand Ocean Hotel.

As someone who had to be parted from my family because of hostile actions, I feel it is our duty to extend the same level of compassion to others in similar circumstances.

-M E Stroud, Haywards Road, Patcham