SIR -- Oxford Mail readers did me proud with their letters and phone calls in respect of my request for information about the eruption of Mount Vesuvius in 1944.

A well-travelled lady from Eynsham sent me a book about the volcano and its history.

Apparently no smoke has been seen coming from Mount Vesuvius since March 1944 when it had its most recent eruption, but I am pretty positive I used to see a wisp of smoke gently rising from it while relaxing on HMS Antwerp, anchored in Naples bay quite late in 1944.

Mount Etna has been a different kettle of fish this year.

DARBY SUTTON

Cromwell Close

Old Marston

Oxford