Another much-used weather word in Scotland is “dreich” (Weatherwatch: UK needs fludders and drookit to describe changing climate, Guardian, 29 September). From Norse, it means dreary or bleak. And from treeless Shetland in particular, very open to weather, we have “flanning” for gusting wind, “haar” for thick sea fog, “ask” for a haze or mist, “smirr” for the fine rain that completely soaks you, and many more. But dinna fash yersel, because “today’s rain is tomorrow’s whisky”.
Copland Smith
Manchester
• Families should have more children so that they can take on caring for elderly parents, says Robert Jenrick (Report, 2 October). But if they do, they will be denied any child benefit. A fresh example of joined-up government.
Kevin McGrath
Harlow, Essex
