Letter: Shared pleasure in an adopted son

Sir: I am baffled by the supposition of inevitable incompatibility between adoptive and natural families. Thirty-odd years ago, my son was placed for adoption. Two years ago, he and I were happily reunited.

Between the surviving (natural and adoptive) parents, there is no conflict. Should there be? My son's adoptive father most willingly provided a resume of my child's life while - as he put it - he was his 'guardian'.

Reunion with his natural family has greaty broadened and warmed my son's life. His allegiance to his adoptive family, far from being damaged, thrives.

For more than 30 years, my son's family have delighted in the child I gave them. Now I share their pleasure. Where's the conflict?

Yours sincerely,

JULIA SHIPTON

Whipton, Devon

20 January