Farran not SAS founder

I was interested to read Roy Taylor's letter (October 24) about Major Roy Farran of Codsall.

He was indeed one of the most decorated soldiers of the Second World War.

However, I would quarrel with one of Mr Taylor's assertions. Although an extremely active and courageous member of the SAS, Roy Farran was not, in fact, the founder of the regiment. That honour belonged to Lt Col David Sterling, who led the regiment's first raid behind enemy lines in November 1941.

In 1960, as a young reporter on the Express & Star, I had the privilege of interviewing Roy Farran. He was in the UK for the publication of his latest book, Operation Tombola, which recounted his experiences behind enemy lines.

A very pleasant evening with a quite delightful and entertaining gentleman.

Brian Beesley, Derwent Road, Tettenhall.