SIR - I sympathise with Janet Bujra's letter regarding the closing hours of Undercliffe Cemetery (T&A, April 25).

It is a sad reflection of our times. But I also sympathise with the voluntary team of workmen whose efforts keep this place the haven that it is.

May I ask how many of the 24 signatories are themselves part of the team who give of their time and effort, and how many are dog owners?

It is not only the vandals and druggies who abuse the privileges provided by these workmen. I also sympathise with all dog owners who, like smokers, are ostracized by society but unlike smokers are not allowed anywhere to exercise their pets.

Our council has the police of building on every piece of spare land. What happened to our feudal rights where every man was given common land on which to graze his animals?

Elaine Neale, Gordon Terrace, Idle

  • SIR - May I respond to the person who feels that it is their right to walk through Undercliffe Cemetery and override the wishes of those who have loved ones who have been laid to rest?

My father-in-law had a very unusual surname name, one that made intelligent vandals decide it was that of a person from a certain race.

I can assure you that to visit the cemetery and to find black swastikas painted all over the marble cross this does not support a feeling of love to ones fellow men.

We would like to thank the great team of volunteers who work hard to maintain the Undercliffe Cemetery and say that, as a family who have loved ones lying in peace at Undercliffe, we support the closing of gates during the hours of darkness.

If those who complain regarding the gates closing wish to spend more time at this well-maintained cemetery, may I suggest they spend that time supporting the voluntary workers.

A R Powell, Hawes Drive, Bradford