ON Thursday, May 26, I visited Darwen Cemetery to visit the grave of my father, Joseph Grainger, who was interred there in 1953.

I was shocked to see the state of the cemetery – it resembled a scene from a horror film, with headstones littered on the ground.

Having only visited Darwen once, since my father was buried, I doubt (even with a section and grave number) that I would have located his grave without the assistance of a cemetery worker called Peter.

This kind and helpful man disappeared into the undergrowth before I had time to thank him properly, but I hope he reads this letter and accepts my sincere thanks for all his help.

Mrs J B Phifer (nee Grainger), Barrow in Furness.