Lucky to still be alive

SIR - I was walking with my dog along Newport when I was asked by a young lad this question: If I give you the money, would you please go into the shop and buy me a pack of cigarette tobacco? I was taken by surprise, but quickly opened my shirt and show

SIR - I was walking with my dog along Newport when I was asked by a young lad this question: "If I give you the money, would you please go into the shop and buy me a pack of cigarette tobacco?"

I was taken by surprise, but quickly opened my shirt and showed him my 12-inch scar in my chest due to a triple heart bypass operation.

"This is the result of smoking," I said, "and I have given up and so should you. Sorry, but no I won't go into the shop for you."

He made a funny face and turned away. I hope he takes my advice and stops smoking before it's too late,

I'm lucky to still be alive.

John Beaver, 76, Barnstaple.