A recent decision by a Birmingham vicar to place a portable toilet within the grounds of St John’s Church in Perry Barr has provoked strong reactions, particularly from grieving visitors.

The temporary installation, positioned just steps from gravesites, has left some mourners, including a widower, feeling distressed.

According to Birmingham Live, the widower, who chose to remain anonymous, expressed deep disappointment after finding the toilet placed near his late wife’s resting place.

He described the placement as a violation, questioning: “Would anyone want their loved ones to share their resting place with a toilet?”

He noted that there was ample space available elsewhere on the property and stressed that the war graves present were being overshadowed by the disruptive addition.

Rev Danny Payne, who assumed his role at St John’s in September, issued an apology and stated that the placement was due to urgent repairs at the church’s center.

The church’s toilets were currently out of service, necessitating temporary facilities for congregants and visitors.

He assured the public that the situation was under review.

The widower continued, criticising the decision and suggesting that the Rev Payne’s short tenure had already caused issues for some churchgoers.

He added that while workers were not using the temporary toilet because the hall’s facilities were still operational, the sight was both unnecessary and deeply upsetting to mourners.

Rev Payne responded by clarifying that the renovations were part of essential work addressing structural issues and would ultimately benefit the broader community of Perry Barr.