SIR: Many people are retiring younger and living longer. Making adequate provision for retirement has never been so important. To help those in mid-career improve their pension income, Age Concern is publishing the fourth edition of 'The Pensions Handbook 1997-98: a mid-career guide to improving retirement income', by Sue Ward on June 5, 1997.

Published and updated every June, 'The Pensions Handbook 1997-98' is a comprehensive guide for people who wish to improve their financial security in retirement. This indispensable handbook, written in clear and concise language examines the three types of pension schemes - state, occupation and personal.

This essential guide covers topics including: pension safety, drawing and deferring your pension; increasing your pension by paying voluntary contributions and what to do if your employment situation changes. This handbook also looks at the Pension Act and explains what to do if you have been mis-sold a personal pension. There are also sections on pension issues relating to women.

"Mid-career is a perfect time to take stock of your pension arrangements and maximising your contributions now, should pay dividends in the future," Age Concern's Director General Sally Greengross said. "What type of pension you have, this handbook is an excellent source of information and offers sound advice on all aspects of pension provision."

'The Pensions Handbook 1997-98: a mid-career guide to improving retirement income', is priced £6.95 and published by ACE Brooks. The book is available from all good book shops, local Age Concern groups or direct from Age Concern England, Mail Order Department, (Pensions Handbook), FREEEPOST, London, SW16 4BR or credit card orders can be made on 0181 679 8000.

Gabriella Brooks/Beverley Priest

Age Concern, London

0181 679 8000, 0421 838136

Converted for the new archive on 14 July 2000. Some images and formatting may have been lost in the conversion.