With reference to the letter by Laurie Keen (September 9), when Churchill and Monty met at Brighton in 1940 to discuss the defence of the South Coast, a lighter side to their meeting was when Churchill asked Monty what he would like to drink and the latter replied he did not drink, did not smoke and was 100 per cent fit.

Churchill replied he did smoke, did drink and was 200 per cent fit.

Time has taken its toll and we now know that Monty died at 89 and Churchill pipped him by living to 91.

Perhaps, as one who has for years worked in the health field, I should not repeat this story but my enthusiasm to share this piece of history overcame my professional scruples.

-Dr James Chamberlain-Webber, Rottingdean