Letter of Claim - Query

[legalopera]

Hi everyone! I've received what I deduce is a letter of claim. However, it wasn't sent as a letter but rather in the body of an email, it doesn't mention it's a letter of claim/before action. It also doesn't threaten litigation nor does it give me a timeframe for a response. They've also copied in the other potential defendant and said to sort it out amongst ourselves. They did provide details of incurred costs and a summary of facts. What are the next steps? Do I have to respond in the next 14 days or can I treat it as a complaint only?

[atticus]

Perhaps you should start by considering (1)whether you may have a liability to this possible claimant in respect of the matters described and (2) the position as between yourself and the "other potential defendant".

Also consider an immediate reply that in view of the Christmas/New Year period you doubt that you will be able to reply within 14 days.