A public meeting is to be arranged to give the public an opportunity to have their say on the decision to dedicate shrubs to the memory or 16 conscientious objectors who refused to fight in the First World War.

The topiary shapes were unveiled when English Heritage opened a new contemporary garden at Richmond Castle, which guards the entrance to Swaledale in North Yorkshire.

The men were imprisoned in the keep for the duration of the war, most surviving their ordeal only to live in ignominy after their release.

Although attitudes towards those who made a stand on their principles have softened over the last 80 years, some still brand them cowards.

Veterans of other campaigns have been among those to criticise English Heritage's decision to dedicate the shrubs to the Richmond 16.

But former soldier and Richmond town councillor, David Johnson, insists a public meeting should not be seen as an opportunity to browbeat the organisation.

''In fact, I hope English Heritage will attend,'' he said. ''There is nothing personal in this public meeting; it is merely to give people a chance to comment on the issue.''

English Heritage has already pointed out the Cockpit Garden was designed to reflect the history of the castle; the conscientious objectors imprisoned in the keep are part of that history and have therefore been remembered - but the shrubs are not meant to celebrate their refusal to go to war.

However, some members of the Richmond branch of the Royal British Legion who are also English Heritage members are reported to be considering leaving.

''It is an emotive subject and all opinions are respected,'' said Mr Johnson after a branch meeting on Wednesday night (June 26).

''English Heritage seems to have put insufficient effort into letting the community know what its detailed plans for the garden were. Although the shrubs are now in, it is still felt people should be given the right to discuss the issue and it was agreed a public meeting would best serve that purpose.''

A date, time and venue have yet to be announced. Mr Johnston emphasised, although he would be making the arrangements, the gathering was not being held under the Royal British Legion banner.

''This is something I am doing as a local councillor and not as a legion member,'' he said.