THE art of letter-writing is often thought to be dead.

I joined the International Pen Friends club and was delighted to discover that, far from being dead - and in spite of e-mail - the good old letter is still very much alive and kicking.

For a reasonable fee, the club supplied me with a list of contacts at home and abroad in my age-group and sharing similar interests. They all correspond in English so there are few translation difficulties.

These days, I write to pen-pals in many countries. I have exchanged news and views, recipes, souvenirs, tears and laughter. My knowledge of the ways of the world and its people is greater, and my life richer, thanks to my wonderful friends with pens.

Readers wanting further information can write to me at: PO Box 71, St Ives, Cambridgeshire PE27 5GL, enclosing a SAE.

E. HARDY (Mrs)