CONSERVATION -- A group called the Letton God's Acre group has been formed in the parish with a view to conservation of the churchyard. This does not mean a stand of nettles four foot high or profusion of rampant brambles. It is about management of the natural habitat allowing wild flowers and natural fauna to flourish. Churchyards are now among the few small pockets of land left which have never been under the plough or treated with chemicals. Conservation and restoration go together, gravestones and architectural features such as preaching crosses will be put in order and repaired as necessary. It will still be a churchyard but a cared for churchyard under the professional guidance of The Caring for God's Acre organisation. Apart from generally enhancing the aspect of the churchyard, it is hoped to encourage visitors such as teachers and their pupils for nature study, artists to paint the wildflowers and others to come and look at and enjoy or even just to sit and snatch a few tranquil moments out of busy lives. Grants are available from The Caring for God's Acre Charity in association with English Heritage, providing certain criteria are met. The work will be starting now the spring is here. The Letton group is few in number, so extra volunteers would be most welcome, not only for the physical work but also for help with a number of surveys. Architectural, botanical, fungal, lichen, bird, insect and mammal surveys (with particular reference to the bats) are planned. You do not have to be a churchgoer or even a member of the parish. Anyone who has an interest in any aspect of conservation should contact the chairman/secretary, Derys Maddox, on 01544 327268.