Why is this gravestone to a Second World War hero out of order?

Exactly 10 years after the death of proud Royal Marine captain Bill Hoadley, council officials now say it does not meet regulations.

And they have given Bill's family just 28 days to make alterations.

Now Mr Hoadley's family are begging Medway Council to let their war hero dad rest in peace.

Royal Marine Captain Bill Hoadley died in 1998, aged 76, after devoting his life to the service of his country.

He saw action during the Second World War in Burma, Italy, India and on the North Atlantic convoys.

He later became the commanding officer of the Royal Marine Cadet Unit in Chatham and chairman of the Chatham branch of the Royal Marine Association.

When he was laid to rest at Strood Cemetery, his family decided to build a grave worthy of his service, and it has remained largely unchanged for a decade.

But when his daughter Glyn McGrath and son-in-law Colin from Chattenden, went to visit the grave last week they found a notice from Medway Council telling them it did not comply with regulations. They have been given 28 days to make alterations.

For the full story, see the Medway Messenger website