Councillors got it right over war memorial move (From Warrington Guardian)

Councillors got it right over war memorial move

I am writing to you regarding the issue of the replacing of the cenotaph.

The purpose is to try and find a way of clearing the confusion that is causing the local community to, perhaps, form the wrong opinions over this dispute.

I am aware that there is an opportunity to voice one's opinion in writing, to at least three sources. My concern is that that avenue would only reach one of the opinionated sources.

This would not achieve what I think is important, which is a 'considered' opinion by the public who might be driven one way or the other for the wrong reasons.

To be as brief as I can I will try and put into words what I am getting at. There is a vast difference in the meaning of the two words cenotaph and grave; the issue is for the cenotaph, which does not have any bodies buried beneath it, to be relocated to another location.

Therefore, with it not being a grave there is no question of "letting them rest in peace" as has been quoted by those who, it would appear, are not aware of the difference. Or then again using this term as a means of getting sympathetic support for their cause.

Cenotaphs are usually located in well-chosen and respected places where one can communicate condolences and memories in silence and with a certain amount of privacy.

The present location of this particular cenotaph no longer enjoys those qualifications. The environment has been completely changed from what was chosen as appropriate many years ago.

One could say it is more appropriate for the mobile amusement facilities (with accompanying music) that are located on occasion, not far from the McDonalds facility and other shops and stores that are now open seven days a week.

The proposed site, which has been developed in recent years, opposite the Municipal Offices is by far a more suitable place.

What is more it qualifies with all the usual applicable qualifications and is more considerate to the area than the town square which has now become a principle shopping and eating area.

In town square it causes, particularly on a Remembrance Day, inconvenience to those who are not interested in the ceremony that is taking place.

I truly think that this is an occasion when the local councillors should be congratulated on this proposal and decision.

John Helme

Binyon Way

Crewe