IT is worth noting that, where an athlete has used anabolic steroids, increased muscle bulk remains when drug taking stops (“Everyone deserves another chance ... including Gatling”, Chris Deerin, and Letters, The Herald, August 8).

The athlete continues to make use of physique built by illegal means and so has an advantage over “clean” competitors.

It follows that only a lifetime ban can be the appropriate penalty.

Alistair Macleod,

39 Lodge Walk,

Elie,

Leven.