Referring to Mr Ashby's letter on the effect a possible withdrawal of lead replacement petrol will have on his cherished older car for which modern unleaded fuel is unsuitable (Letters, Aug 21), I think he has no cause for concern.

To begin with, it is not widely known that proper, leaded four-star fuel has never been withdrawn completely and something like 150 petrol stations throughout the country still stock it.

Unfortunately, East and West Sussex are not served as well as some other counties but the nearest outlet to Mr Ashby's home is at West Hoathly, five miles or so north of Haywards Heath.

Apart from that, since the withdrawal of four-star leaded fuel from most petrol stations, a number of lead-replacement additives have been introduced which use phosphorous or sodium to provide the valve-seat lubricating protection previously afforded by the lead in leaded fuel and these are available at all good motor accessory shops.

Using one of these additives each time he fills up with modern, unleaded fuel will enable Mr Ashby to enjoy the use of his car for many years to come.

A number of these lead-replacement additives have been independently tested on behalf of the Federation of Historic British Vehicle Clubs and using one of the additives carrying the FHBVC endorsement should ensure no harm will come to any older engine.

-Colin Butchers, Hill Farm Way, Southwick