I FOUND Christopher Wardell's letter about a HAS contributors' football team (HAS, June 30) humorous, but he knows my football talents quite well and I was miffed not to be in his team. I can only put it down to inexperience and lack of judgement.

Having been, many years ago, a schoolboy international and a professional player in Scotland and the US, and a referee in the Washington State League when I stopped playing, I felt I was worth a place in the team.

However, I do not bear grudges and Mr Wardell would certainly be in my squad - he could warm the bench and make the tea at half-time.

Hugh Pender, Darlington.