War memorials

sir – It is not only Seaford that recognises civilian casualties of war (Letters, October 17).

In Pinner, we have two beautiful books containing just under 600 names of all those from the parish who lost their lives during the Second World War, including some prisoners of war who were housed here.

The books are kept in a designated area in West House in Pinner Memorial Park. Rather than having another cenotaph-type memorial, this site was bought by Pinner residents to be a permanent reminder of the sacrifices made between 1939 and 1945.

For several years now, we have held – in addition to our main Remembrance service in the high street – a short service alongside these books on November 11. It enables those not able to stand for a long period in all weathers to attend and pay their respects. Judith Elliott

Pinner, Middlesex

sir – It is only right that civilians who died by enemy action in the war be remembered on war memorials, but it was not always thought to be so.

As vice-chairman of a parish council in Sussex some 30-odd years ago, I recall my tussle to insert the names of those villagers who were killed by a bomb jettisoned from a damaged raider.

I argued that the wives who were at home supporting servicemen and struggling alone with rationing, the constant threat of air raids and the task of bringing up children were just as much on war work as anyone else.

Fortunately, reason prevailed and their names are now there to be remembered alongside their fellow villagers who also made the supreme sacrifice. Ron Giddens

Caterham, Surrey