I cannot understand the Scots allowing scientists to hunt for the Loch Ness monster (Argus, April 26).

If they decide there is no monster, it could damage the tourist trade. If they do find one, the poor thing's life will be made a misery.

The intention may be to take samples of DNA but, if a monster is caught, the scientists will find themselves unable to resist carrying out further experiments - they get carried away.

Too many animals have suffered in the cause of science. Of course, we could look on the bright side.

I have a mental picture of the monster with a scientist in its mouth. He is saying: "There is no logical reason for this animal to exist. It's just a figment of people's imagi..." The scientist vanishes, leaving a contented-looking monster to swim away - with the gratitude of all laboratory animals.

-Miss K Reeves, Burford Road, Horsham