B TOMLIN "Was wondering how long it would be before someone from Wootton Bassett would bring up the subject of outsiders attending the repatriations."

I thought that I had my habitat as Purton! I had lived in Wootton Bassett for 46 years until 1988.

When I mention outsiders, all I mean is, that it covers people who live outside of Wootton Bassett and that is always where we have gone beyond the local issue of the press and media stating that: “The people of Wootton Bassett once again lined the streets etc...etc”.

I have always stated that these people have a right to be there but I question the reasoning for some!

As an ex-member of the British Legion I take you back to the initial reasoning that, when the repatriations began, it was suggested that the members should be there at the Cenotaph, in dark suits, no medals, to show the humility and respect the servicemen deserved.

I know of an issue whereby medals are worn but not as earned or deserved, but as purchased! “I want to be seen!” Case rested on that one!

I realise that the Legion bikers have their own reasons to attend and come from far and wide but they seem to me to 'want to be noticed'! The picture in the Swindon Advertiser, October 15, along with B Tomlin's letter showed that!

Yes it is a privilege to honour those who have made the ultimate sacrifice, I agree!

I have said that I do not attend but I pay my respects in the quiet of my garden, especially when I see the relevant aircraft flying over! I don't need to be seen and for Remembrance I make a very sizeable donation to the Poppy Appeal and I know that is a week's shopping to many and so they cannot afford to do that.

To me, the only time we need to show the medals we have is on Remembrance Day and at the relevant parades.

B Tomlin states about my small-minded and petty comments but I have my opinion and others have theirs. I have always been a tad controversial though because I don't conform if I don't believe in the reasoning for conforming, but I do not set out to offend.

I wonder if we would see the difference in attendance if we asked people to attend in black suits/ blazers etc, no medals, no standards, no town criers’ outfits etc? The respect would still be the same!

B Tomlin states: “I hope the vast majority of the people of Wootton Bassett continue to welcome us.” It is not about welcoming others, it is about respect and humility from the town for those whose lives have been lost!

CHRIS GLEED Proud Close Purton Swindon