West End News: I took an American friend of mine on a guided tour of London and the highlight was to include a visit to St Paul’s Cathedral.| Barry Hopkins Caterham, Surrey

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West End Extra - LETTERS TO THE EDITOR
Published:20 June 2008

Let us pray, but please, not pay!

• I TOOK an American friend of mine on a guided tour of London and the highlight was to include a visit to St Paul’s Cathedral.
I was horrified to discover that they are now charging £10 admission.
People’s reaction as they entered the great west wing doors only to discover a turnstile was equally as shocking and they were leaving in their droves.
If St Paul’s and Westminster Abbey (entrance fee is £12) feel it’s morally right to charge then it’s only a matter of time before others follow.
If you know of any other cathedrals or churches in your area that are charging excessive entrance fees, bring it to public attention.
One can only hope that in time, common sense will prevail and they will scrap the turnstile.
But remember churches do need our support so be generous and give whatever you can afford.
I know that these great buildings need to be maintained and it’s fair to say that many visitors don’t dig deep enough into their pockets, but charging to worship surely isn’t the way forward?
We live in a world where money seems to be of paramount importance.
So many people are struggling to make ends meet, having free access to these great monuments is a way in which we can escape from our worries and take a moment to reflect.
Over the years, there has been a steady decline in church attendance. More than ever, we need to be opening our doors to young and old alike of all faiths and encouraging them to join together. Charging excessive entrance fees to our great cathedrals cannot be the way ahead.
Barry Hopkins
Caterham, Surrey

Send your letters to: The Letters Editor, West End Extra, 40 Camden Road, London, NW1 9DR or email to letters@westendextra.co.uk. The deadline for letters is midday Wednesday. The editor regrets that anonymous letters cannot be published, although names and addresses can be withheld.
Please include a full name, postal address and telephone number.
Letters may be edited for reasons of space.

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