SIR. I was absolutely astounded at the mean mindedness of Kingston Council's plan to close the cemetery gates at Bonner Hill and Dawson Roads.

The cemetery is a local amenity, only last week the Government sent out some directive about them being included in open spaces for the local people.

I have no doubt there is a small amount of antisocial behaviour but that is not the majority of the people who use the cemetery.

And surely any antisocial could be dealt with by all these new community police wandering about?

You want to stop people from using the cemetery as a shortcut, why? What is wrong with it being used thus - it is part of our neighbourhood, it is a lovely open space full of wildlife. It is an absolute joy to walk through.

And much safer and more enjoyable than the narrow dangerous pavement along Hawkes Road.

The terms "a sledge hammer to crack a nut" and "Scrooge" both come to mind with regard to this mean decision.

RJ Pearcey via email