Sir – I am sure that Christopher Gray is bemused at the continuing doubts regarding his existence. Like Michael Dowsett, I have long wished for a photographic feature on ‘what might have been’.

Sadly the trio did sign a contract and their agent, Senor Menditeguy, takes a somewhat Shylockian view of any publicity shots. I am afraid we will not be seeing a group photo.

I am flattered that Harry Webster thinks my stumbling words are in any way similar to Mr Gray’s always elegant, informative and amusing writing, but in this matter only he is too kind.

Three cheers for Nigel Clarke’s anticipation of Christopher Gray’s next appearance, real people do have the habit of so doing.

Having re-read the offerings of Edward Richardson, Michael Dowsett, Harry Webster and Nigel Clarke there are distinct similarities of style and approach.

Could it be that they are one and the same person? Or non-person? Have our students been up to more mischief? I think so.

Gerard van Dam, Eynsham