THE letter from Keith Gallon (Standard, July 24) should not go unchallenged. Large trees such as oak should not be planted near any structure, whether they are tombstones, walls or even the war memorial itself, as in the years to come, the roots will cause damage.
The church building itself has stood more or less unchanged since 1497 and it is our responsibility and particularly mine as one of the church wardens, to see that it remains so. The population in 100 years or so will not be impressed by having the view of the church obstructed by a large tree, and the light through the world-famous stained glass windows restricted.
The idea of planting an oak tree has been discussed by the parochial church council and no doubt, by the town council and I am sure the correct decision has been taken. The ill-informed criticism is unfair and unjustified.
MIKE GODSAL, Fairford
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