An allotment is more than just a plot of land, it’s a community. Its committee must be part of that community and respect its members.

So it is shocking to see the treatment of D-Day veteran Patrick Churchill by Mary Killick, chairwoman of Witney Allotment Association.

Her actions are the epitome of the word “jobsworth”, applying the letter of the law when some lateral thinking was needed.

Yes, rules and regulations need to be adhered to, and allotments cannot be allowed to grow wild and uncultivated, especially as there are many waiting in the wings for plots.

But here is a man who fought on the beaches of Normandy for our freedom, who is 91 and struggles due to poor health over the winter months.

Sometimes, the rules needs to be put in context and some common sense applied.

The war hero should have been offered assistance, not threatened with eviction.

It is a disgraceful way to treat the former Royal Marines Commando.

The fact that the allotments were set up in 1947 for returning veterans should have governed Ms Killick's behaviour, not a set of rules and regulations.

Thankfully allotment members of the allotment themselves showed the way and clubbed together to assist.

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