16 FEBRUARY 1985, Page 23

Older race

Sir: The statement that England gave the world racing — horse racing — (Notes, 26 January) is not strictly correct. The Guin- ness Book of Records (1958 edition) states that 'the oldest race still being run annually is the Lanark Silver Bell', instituted by William Lion (1165-1214).

J. P. Maule

Hannahfield Quarry House, Balerno, Midlothian