HAVING had to shield due to asthma and COPD I have enjoyed the daily release of a walk taking in the southern part of Hove Cemetery.

There, in a 100-yard stretch between the central arch and the main gate I paused at two notable graves.

Firstly there is the tomb of Sir Jack Hobbs, his wife Lady Ada and their daughter, Vera Joyce King. Along with Sir Donald Bradman, Sir Garry Sobers, Sir Vivian Richards and Shane Warne, Sir Jack was named by Wisden as one of the five greatest cricketers of the 20th century.

He scored more runs - 61,237 - and hit more centuries - 197 - than anyone else in the entire history of first class cricket. Twelve of his 15 Test centuries were against Australia, a record for an Englishman.

Secondly, there is the grave of Colour Sergeant-Major B N Butcher MC DCM. As recounted in this newspaper a few months ago, he displayed outstanding courage in leading his men to safety when they came under heavy fire during the First World War.

All of their Royal Sussex Regiment Officers taking part in the action had been killed before Bernard took over and therefore none could - as the regulations demanded - certify that such heroism was worthy of the award of a Victoria Cross.

Today, Monday August 16, is the centenary of Bernard's death. As 11am is the usual time for military commemorations it would be fitting if people could stop by then to pay their respects to a remarkable man.

John Lees

Hove