see that the county council has not only put a stop to a very worthy fundraising event at Cassington on health and safety grounds (Oxford Mail, June 4), but, in its decision over the new repatriation route, has also shown a total lack of respect for our very brave members of the armed forces who have made the ultimate sacrifice in the name of this country (Mail, June 8).

In its wisdom, it has decided, along with others, that the fallen will not be offered the dignity of leaving by the main gate but by the back gate.

If the leader, deputy leader or any member the of council who have sacrificed nothing for their country were to visit RAF Brize Norton they would expect not only to enter by the main gate but leave by the main gate.

This decision shows not only a total lack of respect for our armed forces, and in particular the deceased, but also members of the public who wish to show their support to the families.

I have no doubts that if there were expenses on offer councillors would be there in front of the cameras with their flowers, milking it for all they could. No wonder the country is in the mess it is in.

Keith Brooks, Gateley, Horspath