SIR - In his letter about Muslim women and their veils (T&A, October 17), the Rev Geoff Reid said: "Those who wear this garment are a tiny minority.

"There are some who walk down our street completely shrouded in black. I don't talk to them because it is indeed off-putting as Mr Straw observes. I am content to leave that to other women."

I always thought that the church was there to break down barriers and its ministers installed to practice what it preaches; obviously I was wrong. However, I feel sure a pleasant salutation would not be rebuffed, never mind offend an adherent follower of Islam.

I am not au fait with the Touchstone Centre but as head of the organisation the reverend should lead by example if he wishes to expedite better relations.

In any case, according to Nida Ul Haque (T&A, October 14), Islam only orders women to wear veils for their safety and protection which certainly does not prevent them talking to anyone or vice versa.

David Rhodes, Croscombe Walk, Bowling