I FEEL it necessary to write about my concerns over the proposed War Memorial move and in particular the consultation documents that are currently in circulation. I feel that the wording of the text is heavily weighted in favour of a yes vote and is geared to manipulate public opinion and not to gauge it.

I have written to the council about this and have talked to a committee representative over the phone, although this has failed to ease my concerns. The only flimsy reason put forward to move this memorial was that the churchyard was the original chosen sight some 80 years ago. Many things are put in many places over the years but does that mean that we have to keep relocating them decades after?

The form says that the relocation is 'endorsed by a majority of people in Tavistock', without naming any source for this extravagant claim. I have since learned that it came from a straw poll from a public meeting of around 100 people. I believe that there are around 6000 people in Tavistock, so I feel that that statement had no foundation.

The question itself is only really answerable in one way, i.e. yes. It reads 'Do you think that the War Memorial should be moved to a more appropriate location?'. You cannot answer 'No, I don't think that the War Memorial should be moved to a more appropriate location', without conceding that it is currently in an inappropriate situation! The question should read 'Do you think that the War Memorial should be moved'. Whether the current location is appropriate or not should be up to the person answering the question.

I am concerned that people will slide along with this document into giving a yes vote without weighing up the issue in question.

The War Memorial is currently on neutral ground in the heart of the town, yes with cars around it along with people and activity. But it is a Town Memorial and it is part of the town. To put it into Church grounds after 80 years in its current location is a symbolic gesture of righting supposed wrongs and turning all the men on the Memorial into Christians.

The fact that grants may be available for the move should be of no concern. Just because there are grants available for something doesn't mean that you should do it. The issue should be settled first then any funding after.

I hope people will see through this document and be duly angered with it. I also hope that they will let the council know their concerns. I would be interested in hearing from people opposed to moving the Memorial. They could email me at [email protected]">[email protected] or write to me:

Stuart Pethick

16 Morwellham Cottages

Tavistock