IN common with Julian Cole's grandfather, who was waiting for a cheque to arrive up until the time of his death at nearly 80 (Evening Press, June 22) my dad was also planning ahead just before he died, aged 82.

My father was looking forward to Christmas and I'll always remember his cheerful demeanour and unfailing optimism.

As for the unpublished novel, Julian, press on... I know the feeling.

Margaret Lawson,

Aldborough House,

The Groves,

York.