Sidley family's graveyard distress

Michelle Newell, of Cumberland Road, and her relatives are now facing a court battle to keep the memorial to her father, Ernest Berwick, in Icklesham churchyard.

They were contacted by the Archdeacon of Chichester to explain consent for the monument was made in error and the design fails to meet the requirements of the diocese.

Michelle says they had not been shown the criteria for memorials and the church vicar was aware of the colour, measurements and wording to be used when he consented to the design.

The diocese have said the memorial should not feature polished stone, black writing and a photo plaque and consent should not have been given for its erection in the churchyard.

The family paid almost 3,000 for the memorial last year, following the unexpected death of Mr Berwick.

They have already begun petition which has collected over 350 names, including widespread support from people in Icklesham.

Michelle said: "I am speaking for all the family when I say this, it has caused such stress and concern.

"When we spoke to the vicar he didn't say he couldn't give consent for this. It is absolutely disgusting how they can treat people like this.She says her 75-year-old mother, Joyce, has been left "worried sick" by the experience.

"She has said she wishes she wasn't here anymore, " said Michelle. "She wishes she was with her husband and it's her kids that are keeoing her going. She wouldn't have been able to cope with this herself."

Michelle's, husband Alan, added: "We had to save up for the stone and now we might have to remove it. If that is what they call Christian, well then I don't know ..."

The couple have been joined in their fight by the rest of the family, including sisters Pauline Markwick and Tina Finn.

Tina added: "It is disgusting. We weren't told anything at the time."

A court date is yet to be set.

The diocese had yet to respond to the Observer's request for a comment at the time of going to press.