I wish to offer an alternative perspective to RJ Stewart's interpretation of Andy Murray's recent withdrawal from the Stella Artois Championship (Fans with Laptops, Tuesday 17).

Given Murray's previous experience last year when he missed Wimbledon though injury, plus increased level of media attention on him as the UK's only realistic hope in the tournament, it makes logical sense that Murray ensures he is fit and ready for the tournament.

I believe his approach is mature, pragmatic and sensible.

Rather than a lack of desire, hunger or toughness on Murray's part as suggested by RJ Stewart, I prefer to see the withdrawal as part of a professional approach to preparation.

To claim Murray "epitomises the social failures in the Scottish youth of today" seems far fetched, if not ludicrous.

D Hesse, Kilmacolm

Lockie spot on over loss of Scottish talent

I am delighted someone has finally made the suggestion that for all the money that is pumped into golf development, it is not quite right yet (Douglas Lowe on Tuesday). Bill Lockie's list is a stark warning. I believe not enough support is given to developing pros.

The standard on the Challenge Tour is severely under estimated, and Andrew MacArthur deserves more credit than he recently received for his win, and Peter Whiteford deserves more coverage for his excellent rookie season on the full European Tour.

Perhaps the forthcoming Scottish challenge event at Cardrona will give the Scottish press the chance to see the likes of MacArthur, the Ramsays, Jamie McLeary, George Murray and others in action, and gain them a little more appreciation, and hopefully some more sponsorship and backing.

B Murray, via email

High-scoring Jags turn Motherwell over

In reply to I Duff's query regarding the 7-3 match between Partick Thistle and Motherwell in the early 70s, (Fans with Laptops, Tuesday 17), the game took place in December 1971 (about five weeks after the League Cup final - of fond memory).

The final result was actually 8-3 to the Jags.

Irritatingly Motherwell scored their third goal in injury time.

A Comrie, via email