SIR - I would like to support Peter Wilson (T&A, May 11), and his stance against Vera Ward, that atheists do not call upon God in extreme situations, and cite my own experience.

I was in South Africa staying with a friend for eight weeks. At the end of the first week we visited Plettenberg Bay. There was a strong undertow, so we didn't venture out far.

However, I suddenly realised I was out of my depth and, sensing the danger, struck out for the shore.

The shore didn't get any nearer. Tired and realising I would not make it, I asked my friend for help, but I realised if it got to where he could save himself or lose both of us, he would have to let go and I would drown.

I did not call upon God for help, but thought: This isn't right, I still have seven weeks' holiday left'.

In the event, I must have passed out, because the next thing I remember is being pulled out of the surf.

Three days later I visited his doctor. His first words on seeing me were: "The last time I saw anyone as bad as you, they were on a marble slab", so no question as to the seriousness of the event.

A G Goldsbrough, Dale Court, Fieldway, Ilkley