I AM writing in response to the Diocese of Manchester's decision to have the engraved headstone of Mr and Mrs Cheetham's daughter, Hayley, removed as it is against the "law of the land".

I am not educated in the Church of England's laws of the land, but I am astounded to find out that if this law regarding headstones does exist, why can it not be reviewed?

Laws are reviewed (and constantly changed) over time to ensure things are done not only morally but ethically as well. The Manchester diocese's reply on this matter shows us the typical response we get when challenging these laws these days.

It is no wonder that there are fewer and fewer people in the congregation at the churches with the way in which they attempt to rule in how we should live and mourn in our lives.

I am not against the C of E as I am a Christian (albeit not a practising one) but the way they act is so out of touch with the real world these days.

How are the ones who decided on matters like these to judge anyone with all the reports of the non-ethical and immoral goings on within the circles of some church leaders?

Churchyards are constantly vandalised and grounds left unattended making the experience of visiting our dearly departed amongst these surroundings non too pleasing.

Surely a headstone looking as beautiful as Hayley's should be appreciated not frowned upon.

The Church of England should do more to encourage the way in which we remember our loved ones and if everyone could afford to buy a headstone as lovely as this one, I'm sure we would all want one when the day comes.

This type would remind people (especially those who vandalise the graves), that there is someone's loved one in the grave and it's not just another "stone" to be desecrated.

I fully support the Cheshams and would encourage anyone to challenge the Manchester Diocese with it's out of touch laws and policies.

Mr Simpson

Leigh