I recently read, with pleasure, your article about the Churches Conservation Trust and the army joining forces to work in the St George’s churchyard, Portland.

I have been a guide at the church for several summers and was pleased that the CCT was taking an interest in the church.

I was shocked to receive a letter from Mr and Mrs Peter Pitman telling me that the CCT have decided to take over the running of the church on their terms.

This decision means that Mr and Mrs Pitman and their colleagues have been kicked in the teeth.

They have continuously raised money by opening their gardens to the public, providing cream teas, selling plants, anything to raise money for the church.

Alongside of this is a rota of guides who give up an average of seven afternoons every summer ensuring that the church is open.

To add insult to injury this decision by the CCT means that there will be no St George’s Day service and no annual carol service.

It appears that the CCT believe the church can be opened safely by individuals with an aid of an electronic lock. This may be correct but there will be no one there to stop any vandalism, to give information, to chat about our island, or to advise on attractions.

I’m not cynical but without a couple of guides there, not everyone will donate and who will empty the safe on a regular basis?

I think the CCT are not thinking with their brain, or is there a hidden agenda somewhere? It is, after all, Olympics year.

I feel sorry for all the Friends of St George’s, now disbanded.

For the guides it means the loss of a pleasant afternoon once or twice a month but for the Friends it is a waste of years of love and effort. I am sorry for the people of Portland. We are in danger of losing a piece of history without even knowing why.

Marion Matthews Clovens Road Portland