16 FEBRUARY 1991, Page 23

Sir: A Mr Vines's criticism of my book Loopy has

caused great discontent, and I am told that of the many letters I have received, some have been sent to you.

Personally I was delighted that my ran- dom ramblings should be reviewed in your excellent paper, but most of Mr Vines's 'imaginings' were false, and reflected a great deal adversely on my regiment, now serving in the Gulf.

I hope you may publish further letters in defence, but should you wish to appease many irate readers, may I suggest that either The Spectator, or preferably Mr Vines, send a cheque for £100 to the Regimental Association, The Queen's Royal Irish Hussars Gulf Fund, Regent's Park Barracks, London.

This would leave your novice author well content.

'Loopy' Kennard

Gogwell, Tiverton, Devon