I FEEL I must respond in defence of the Diocese of Exeter regarding the grave of Sophia Simmons (Times, October 10). The 'DAC' are not busybodies. They are all experts in their field who give their time without charge to help churches manage this vital part of our heritage.

The old part of the churchyard contains many beautiful gravestones made more, not less, interesting by the passage of time. The gradual formation of lichens and the slow erosion of the stone add to the peace and the beauty of the place. 

In the spring the churchyard is carpeted with wild flowers and a recent survey showed no less than 33 species of bird nesting in or around the ground. This is made possible by careful management and by the absence of pesticides and insecticides.

It is important that any work done on the stones is in keeping with the ambience of the grounds. I do not think we would honour Sophia's memory by the introduction of a new stone, which would inevitably look out of place in its setting, and the very most that should be attempted is careful conservation.  The wording on the stone can be recorded and the location of the grave is in no danger of being lost. 

I think we should let Sophia rest in peace.

Stephen Cook

Rector of All Saints Okehampton