THE remarks of Keith Ellel (Letters, March 14) will have offended many people on their way of expressing grief in placing flowers at scenes of tragedy.

Yes, flowers are beautiful -- as is the gesture by people touched by the death of someone they knew or not of laying flowers in tribute to them.

Also, there are many alternative gifts for Valentine's and Mother's Day if people feel conned by florists' shops.

SHEILA BRENNAN (Mrs), Bombay Street, Blackburn.