This letter was in the October 1st issue of the Leicester Mercury but I havent been able to find it online. Even though it is a few weeks old I think it makes some very good points so Ive copied it here for those who dont get a hard copy of the Merc. As one of those regular givers to Leicester Cathedral invited to contribute to the ambulatory around Richard IIIs tomb, I find it hard to understand the criticisms levelled at the dean and his colleagues by the For Richard Society (Mercury, September 3) and the comments online. On the contrary, the allocation of tickets to take part in next years events has been balanced by the need to raise the necessary funding in a very imaginative, sensitive and realistic way; and while I could not afford the £1,500 (not £2,500 as reported), I have no difficulty in rejoicing that those who could, have been invited to the service. How else do the society members suggest the funds should have been raised? These people would probably have raised merry hell had any of it been taxpayer funded. I am grateful that, although I live at some distance from Leicester through a much lesser donation I have been able to contribute in a very small way to this unique piece of Englands history. But the fact is only a few could be accommodated in the space around the tomb. Would casting lots have been any fairer? Or personal connection invitations, which would have attracted far more disapproval? Neither am I sure I understand why the society feels it is elitist for the opportunity to be present when Richards bones are brought into the cathedral to be offered to the many who already give regularly to the cathedral, who additionally raised the funding for the ambulatory, but not elitist had it been offered to those who contributed additionally to the funding for the project - an opportunity open only to a small select group. It is also imaginative and entirely appropriate that descendants of the nobles who fought for Richard at Bosworth should be invited. Philippa Langleys pivotal role in finding Richard has been amply acknowledged, but the online suggestion she thought that if the bones were found they would be handed to her to decide what to do with them insults her intelligence. The terms, set out in the legal licence, were followed to the letter. That some who opposed the choice of Leicester have resorted to online denigration of the new RIII Centre, some without even having seen it, beggars belief. Isnt it time these people approached the very serious issues involved with something approaching maturity? I would like to congratulate the dean, chapter and staff of Leicester Cathedral, and all those in managing the reinterment, for the dignity and fairness with which they have approached this utterly unprecedented and incredibly daunting task. As I understand it, there will be plenty of opportunity for people like me to take part in observances and events open to the general public, and when we cannot be offered places inside the cathedral, such events will be recorded and/or transmitted on large screen. What more could be asked for? Anne Johns, Littleover, Derby
Posted on: Sun, 02 Nov 2014 20:47:16 +0000
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