CHORLEY'S ex-servicemen are horrified at proposals to cut war graves funding.

Local Royal British Legion members have branded the War Graves Commission decision 'deplorable'.

The Commission has come under fire for wanting to cut back overseas allowances paid to UK gardeners working at war graves abroad -- effectively reducing their income.

And as Armistice Day approaches, local Royal British Legion members are voicing their anger.

Cyril Melling, Coppull branch secretary, said: "There was a unanimous vote at Sunday's meeting that members deplore the actions of the MoD and the decision to reduce the money paid to these people. We think they should get a bonus."

He continued: "At Ypres there is the Menin Gate which has all the names of the soldiers who have no known graves.

"I have been across and when you stand there you are amazed at the scene and how beautifully the graves are kept."

And the feeling at county level is just as strong. John Hardiman, county field officer for the Royal British Legion in Lancashire, said there was 'considerable concern and disquiet' that war graves -- and the men they honour -- would simply be forgotten.

He said: "We have expressed concern over the situation. We believe the maintenance of these sites throughout the world is vitally important and is a right and fitting tribute to all those who gave their lives."

He continued: "Cutting the allowances ultimately may mean that the workers are not able to continue doing those jobs on a much reduced income.

Chorley MP Lindsay Hoyle praised the gardeners who tend the graves, and supported calls for the War Graves Commission to reverse its decision.

He said: "It is important that this tradition is maintained and that British war graves overseas continue to be looked after and open for visitors to pay their respect.

"The decision to cut the overseas allowance of UK gardeners will do nothing to help this and may even result in gardeners leaving their jobs."

Mr Hoyle added: "I have written to the Minister for Defence and the Director General of the War Graves Commission expressing my feelings on this matter."

The Commission -- acknowledging the strength of public feeling -- has announced it will be holding an independent review of war grave gardeners' pay and allowances. Graves will not be neglected, it says.

Up to 60 former members of the Black Watch Regiment are expected to meet at Coppull's Royal British Legion club, Springfield Road, on the morning of November 11, to commemorate Armistice Day.