I WRITE in response to the emotive issue regarding Huntington Cemetery and its policy of frowning upon artificial flowers.

Did it not occur to Mr Atlay and his fellow committee members that the sign would cause so much upset? After all, people's loved ones are buried there, my father included.

My mother, who is 78, goes to great lengths to choose silk flowers that would befit the memory of our father, as I'm sure is the case for everyone else who has lost a loved one.

I understand Mr Atlay has since stated that the flowers would not be removed. Unfortunately the intent is implied in the wording of the sign on the gate.

From what my mother tells me, Mr Atlay is a charming gentleman who will not be enjoying the bad press he and his committee are receiving.

However, I hope this experience will urge caution in the future when dealing with people's deep-rooted feelings and that they rethink their policies. Maybe they will even have the sign rewritten or, better still, removed!

Lynne Pugh (nee Brookes),

Lawnswood,

Langford Village,

Bicester.

Updated: 11:18 Monday, August 12, 2002