Sir,

Whether by design or pure serendipity, this year's Tenby Arts Festival (September 19-26) coincides with the tercentenary of the birth of Dr. Samuel Johnson ('SJ'), born September 18, 1709. Can some of his work/life be reflected in this year's festival events?

While 'SJ' is a national figure, he did have some strong local connections through his close friendship with Zachariah Williams, medical practitioner and inventor, and his daughter Anna Williams, the poet, both born in Rosemarket.

They lived with 'SJ' in his home - Anna for more than the last 30 years of her life. Each of them would have met and enjoyed the friendship of Joshua Reynolds, Edmund Burke, Oliver Goldsmith and David Garrick - all frequent visitors to 'SJ'.

Garrick organised a performance at his theatre for Anna to receive the proceeds. She is included by SJ in his 'National Biography', while SJ wrote a book for Zachariah to explain his invention of a magnetic needle to solve the calculation of longitude at sea.

Perhaps Pembrokeshire has special reasons to celebrate the tercentenary of 'SJ'.

Stephen R. Beesley,

Llangwm.