Portsmouth News

Why is the chapel of remembranc­e locked up without explanatio­n?

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Last week my wife and I visited Milton Cemetery to pay respect to the memory of our daughter who lies there.

This was a special day as it was the anniversar­y of her death, and after tending the grave, we made our way to the chapel where the Book of Remembranc­e has her name recorded with a few comforting lines.

It was our intention to place a rose on the Remembranc­e Cabinet and with this in mind we had stopped en route and bought flowers.

We were absolutely astounded to find the chapel locked and bolted.

Nowhere was there to be found any notice of explanatio­n.

A worker close by suggested it was ‘the virus’ and that there was no one about to ask.

The chapel is a place of quiet, respect, contemplat­ion and comfort.

The thought that denying access to those grieving is the result of someone ticking a box is reprehensi­ble.

It is not the most used property on the weekend but I suggest I’m not alone in valuing it highly. Anti-bac gel and spray at the entrance with a requiremen­t for a mask should suffice. It appears adequate elsewhere.

Is there no-one involved in the decision making capable of using a little commonsens­e?

I was able to shop at three places on the way to Portsmouth because people taking precaution­s were also acting sensibly.

We are both in our late eighties and travelled a fair distance and will do so again, but the opportunit­y to view the entry, being date critical, has gone for this year.

Don Hill Poole, Dorset

 ??  ?? PAYING RESPECTS
Milton Cemetery
PAYING RESPECTS Milton Cemetery

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