Madam, READING the letter on June 30th concerning Weston-under-Penyard churchyard, I could understand Rod Barker's anger.
I have lived in Pontshill for over 54 years, and until 2000 I had been to the church but not the graveyard. In 2000 we lost both my in-laws, who wanted to be buried at Ryeford Baptist Chapel. As the graveyard there was full, we decided we would like the burial to take place at Weston church, as both had lived most of their lives in Weston parish, had been married 72 years, and both went to Weston School.
Since then, my husband and I have been looking after the graves of his parents, brother-in-law, and now a very dear friend. We go at least every three weeks in grass-growing weather to cut and tidy up after us. We have never had any reason for complaint, and we've always thought how well looked after the churchyard is.
Yes, the old part is overgrown, but with so many very old, large stones, it would be very difficult to mow. Whoever sent the original letter would do well to visit other churchyards – then they would realise just how tidy Weston's is.
Wendy Cox, Pontshill