Picturesque Midlands town loved by locals where visitors have been told to stop spreading ashes

Council bosses in a scenic Midlands town adored by locals have told people to stop spreading ashes of loved ones there - because it's "unsettling" for visitors. The message was issued by Bridgnorth Council following concerns over ashes being spread in parks in the Shropshire town, near Wolverhampton.

The authority said some might find the spreading of ashes "uncomfortable". But some have been left unimpressed by the order.

The riverside town is hugely popular with Midlanders who flock there to take in the picturesque sights and visit the market, shops and pubs. One fuming local said: "Maybe if you sorted out the steps to the memorial garden in the cemetery that had been closed off with the grotesque orange fence and tape it would be more inviting for people to scatter loved ones.

READ MORE: New 'smart' AI speed cameras catch hundreds of drivers on Midlands roads in months

"Both of my parents are scattered there and it makes it a very upsetting experience to go and visit." Another added: "Yes it might be upsetting for some to see. But to that family scattering it means everything knowing their loved one is in a place they wished to be. It gives comfort and gives somewhere for the family to be together to remember, surely?", reports the Mirror.

A spokesman for the Bridgnorth Town Council said: "Polite reminder to all. As we navigate our grief and honour our loved ones it’s important to remember that scattering ashes in public parks is not permitted. Here are a few reasons why - respect for others: public parks are shared spaces. Scattering ashes can be uncomfortable for other visitors who may not be aware of the significance or may find it unsettling.

"Regulations - many parks have specific rules regarding the scattering of ashes to protect the environment and maintain the area's natural beauty. Environmental impact - ashes can affect local ecosystems potentially harming wildlife and plant life.

"If you're looking for a meaningful way to commemorate your loved one, consider designated memorial spaces or private locations that honour their memory while respecting community guidelines. Thank you for your understanding."

One resident backed the council and even argued spreading ashes could be considered fly-tipping. They said: "Always a good idea to get permission from the land owner or local authority before scattering ashes.

"They might be ashes of a loved one to you, but to someone else it could be considered fly tipping. Or scatter in your own garden." According to the Scattering Ashes website, in the UK it is legal to scatter ashes on both land and water provided the necessary permission is obtained. However, it's important to check local regulations as these might different from an area to the other.