As a visitor to Clacton, I was shocked and upset to hear the opening statement at the war memorial ceremony, which said: "We are here to worship Almighty God".

I most certainly was not.

I wanted to observe the remembrance of my grandfather and all others who died in war.

I feel very strongly that is inappropriate to engage in such religious shenanigans in order to make a public statement of appreciation and respect for our lost airmen, soldiers and sailors.

In these days of inclusion and diversity, to push so called Christianity down the throats of everyone wishing to pay homage to the fallen is vastly wrong.

I was pleased to know that Gayatri Mantra was included, but surely a humanist approach to such an event, which affected people of all cast and creeds would be far more relevant.

Claire Meakin
Clacton