There is no need for this unholy extension row

8:22am Thursday 17th July 2008

I ATTENDED the hearing in Burley Church when cases for and against the proposed extension were made, although actual planning permission has already been granted.

My interests are that my, grandmother's maiden name was Rooke and it was one George Rooke Farnall, then owner of the Burley Manor and most of the land from Burley Street (Forest Road) through to all of Bisterne Close(s). Whilst other Rooke members owned land in around the village. George Rooke paid, I have read, one third of the cost of the construction of the present day Church. My, great grandfather was one Vice Admiral Rooke and his second wife is buried in the church yard. Both my sister and I were married there.

Therefore I have more than a passing interest, although confess I am not a member of the congregation.

In my view having listened to the case put forward from both sides, it seems to me obvious there is next to no need for any extension as the church very rarely is full.

People attending services are falling and if the church funds are sufficiently used, than the income attracted from investments, simply will not continue to pay for the upkeep of the church.

Sadly, the church has no sympathy or passion whatsoever towards the fact that graves will be built over including that of General Grant and his daughter Peggy.

Actor Anthony Head, who was at the hearing along with his own father and mother, is a great grandson of the General.

I also pointed out that pews may have to be removed to allow access from the interior of the church into the new section, therefore losing seating.

There is already a modern side extension containing a reading room, play area, kitchen and toilets.

Many of us believe that has enough space in the case of urgent needs such as counselling, although, that can always and is already undertaken at the vicarage, opposite the church.

I would like to thank Mrs. Jeanne Wilde and her witnesses for putting up a challenge on behalf of we Burley residents who would wish the church to remain as it is, and those who are buried in the ground to simply, 'Rest In Peace'.

Richard F Grant, Ringwood.

PS I was little surprised the local MP did not show up.