I WRITE as a veteran of World War Two having had the good fortune to return home when the war was ended.

I have just received a very moving letter from a Belgian family with whom I formed a friendship that has lasted 60 years. I was present, in the Army, when Belgium was liberated and I can vividly recall the emotion and tears of joy that greeted us when we freed Brussels.

I am quoting a letter I received from these friends on the anniversary of D-Day:

"Dear Fred, On this 60th Anniversary of D-Day our thoughts go out once more to you, and to all your magnificent comrades, and to your great country.

"In early September, 1944 you swept through Belgium and we vividly remember how we looked up at you as quasi-gods bringing us liberty on your chariots of fire.

"We, and we are not alone, are forever grateful to you all.

In addition, as an extra gift, the friendship between our two families has been unending since then.

"With best wishes to you Fred and of course to your wife Daphne,

"Arlette and Herve."

How honoured I feel to be a citizen of a country that is held in such high regard, how privileged to have the friendship of such gracious people. I look to the future and hope that our young people will be able to enjoy the same high regard and comradeship.

FREDERICK ROSE (aged 90), Pleasington, Blackburn.