Families in Ashley are upset after artificial flowers were removed from graves in the village cemeteries.
Pauline Burningham, 83, has lived in Ashley her whole life. Her parents and grandparents also lived there. She feels furious about the flower removal, and many others with family buried there share her anger. Christine Mayes and others disapprove.
Pauline said her family supported Ashley Church for over 100 years. They served as church wardens and treasurers.
The Ely Diocese supports the flower removal policy. Some church members also support it. People find the churchyard depressing now.
Pauline has eleven family members buried there. She stated the church says fake flowers harm the environment and local wildlife.
Pauline calls this action a travesty. She says many cannot maintain graves with real flowers because they do not live nearby.
A Diocese of Ely spokesman discussed the regulations. They apply to all of their churchyards, and they try to apply the rules fairly.
Churchyards are special, shared public places. They need care for future generations and for our own generation too.
The Diocese regrets any upset caused by the maintenance. They want to maintain peace and respect, and the regulations promote good practices.
Local clergy and parochial church councils lack discretion about these rules. Churchyard regulations carry the force of law.