Sir,

Your attention is drawn to some inaccuracies and misconceptions contained in the 'We've been vindicated' claim Manorbier campaigners article, published on July 27, concerning the recent missile firings at the Air Defence Range Manorbier (ADRM) over the period July 21 to 26.

As requested by the Pembrokeshire Coast National Park Authority, the impulse noise emanating from all firings at ADRM over this period was monitored and recorded at six locations in the local area as selected by Manorbier Community Council. All such details were posted on the following website: http://www.pembrokshireranges.com">www.pembrokshireranges.com within 24 hours The MOD self-imposed limit of 130 dB (which is 10dB lower than the statutory limit of 140dB) relating to impulse noise was exceeded on three days over the period.

Firing activity was completely suspended for the remainder of the day on just one occasion. On the other two affected days, although suspended, firing was resumed, once climatic conditions had become more favourable, as planned.

This included three missiles (out of a permitted maximum of five for the week) fired as part of the planned night firing programme on July 24. The assertion that the reserve night firing session planned for July 26 to fire the remaining two missiles was cancelled due to the likelihood that noise levels would be exceeded is not correct. Had the firing unit wished to fire, they could have done so, but there was no requirement so to do.

The reference to the alleged breach of the noise nuisance threshold level of 65dB is misleading and also irrelevant in the context of ADRM operations. It is confirmed that no set noise nuisance levels actually exist.

With reference to the report relating to the incursion of low loaders into Manorbier village, any inconvenience or stress that may have been caused to the community by this incident, which was clearly unpremeditated and unintentional, is much regretted.

It is stressed, however, that the MOD has no jurisdiction over the actions of unladen civilian contractors vehicles operating outside the confines of MOD land.

However, in the interests of all parties, contractors will in future be briefed that such vehicles should not drive into Manorbier village in line with the current restrictions placed on MOD vehicles.

Major Peter Sulman, Commandant Air Defence Range, Manorbier.