I agree with Joy Webster's outrage (October 17) about the decision of the War Graves Commission to cut the pay and allowances of the gardeners and stonemasons who care for the war cemeteries.

My husband and I visit Ypres in Belgium each September to pay respects at the graves of two of my great uncles - both York men, who were killed in World War One. They were in their early 20s when they died, the same age as my own sons.

My uncle, a veteran of the Second World War, has just returned from Italy - visiting graves of his fallen comrades.

We are always struck by the beauty and immaculate appearance of all the war cemeteries abroad.

We have met many of the gardeners and stonemasons who are totally dedicated to their work and are always unfailingly kind and helpful.

Many people perhaps do not realise that the bodies of soldiers from the Great War are still being found today.

We witnessed recent re-burials near Ypres, and all the soldiers, friend or foe, are interred with the greatest reverence.

It has been a comfort to many that the final resting place of their loved ones is kept in beauty and dignity.

We must never forget their sacrifice and we must support the dedicated workers of the Commonwealth War Graves Commission.

I have written to the Prime Minister and the royal family and I urge others to do so.

Mrs A Smith,

Thornton Close,

Easingwold, York.