THE art of letter writing is often thought to be dead, but I must disagree.

In spite of all the excellent communication systems in use today, the good old letter is still very much alive and kicking.

When I joined the International Penfriends Club, I soon discovered the fun of finding friends in faraway places.

The club supplied me with a list of contacts at home and abroad, in my age group and with similar interests to myself. All correspond in English, so there are no language translation difficulties.

These days I write to penpals in the UK, France, Norway, Austria, Japan, New Zealand, USA and Canada, to name a few. I have found penfriendship an exciting yet inexpensive pastime, catering for all ages, creeds and cultures. Over the years, I have exchanged stamps, recipes and souvenirs. My knowledge of the world is greater, my life richer, thanks to my penpals near and far.

Readers wishing further club information, please write enclosing SAE to: Mrs E Hardy, PO Box 71, St Ives, Cambs. PE17 4GL.

Mrs E Hardy

St Ives

Converted for the new archive on 14 July 2000. Some images and formatting may have been lost in the conversion.