12 DECEMBER 1981, Page 17

Medal insult

Sir: May I correct an error in Mr Woodhouse's review of Auchinleck: The Lonely Soldier (28 November)? What was denied to those who served in the Eighth Army before Montgomery took command of it was not the Africa Star but the Eighth Army clasp, which otherwise would have identified those who had been in action and those who had served only in Cairo and other rear areas.

It was a much resented piece of meanness. I find it difficult to believe that Montgomery was (or could have been) responsible for it: but Churchill must surely have known of it in advance, and it is surprising he permitted gallant men to be insulted in that way.

Don Berry

25 The Crescent, Beckenham, Kent