Sand Dunes bench memorials to be removed say Council

Beach rangers say they will be taking away ‘floral tributes’ from around Ainsdale sand dunes in the next few days.

In the last week autumnal living plants and flowers have been brought into the protected dunes around Ainsdale and placed on memorial benches.

It’s not known if the flowers are part of a memorial or designed to bring added enjoyment for beach goers.

However, despite their pleasing look, Council rangers have said in no uncertain terms they have to go.

They were placed on a memorial bench to a Southport woman called Mary Roberson.

A council ranger sign says “Whilst we all share the sadness that comes when someone passes, it is not possible for us to allow memorials to perpetuate with signs, offerings and added flowers / baskets in the nature reserves.

“This can be damaging to the protected areas, and wildlife, and can affect the enjoyment of other visitors, and is therefore not m compatible with the location.

“Of course, our deepest sympathies are with those of you who have lost loved ones, and we are very sorry if this causes any
offence, we do assure you that none is intended.

“The Council does have official memorial locations based on the cemeteries and crematoria and we believe that this is a much more suitable, sustainable and appropriate way forward for these types of memorial gestures.

“We are posting this notice to inform you that we will clear this location of the memorial offerings by Friday 10th December 2021.

“Should you wish to remove them before this date, then of course you are very welcome to do so.

“Thank you for your understanding.”