Plans to remove "unauthorised memorials" from an Ayr crematorium have been slammed as "cruel" and "disgusting".

A public notice has appeared at Masonhill Crematorium telling mourners that staff will be removing and storing any items that are not removed before August 5. 

It reads: "We will be removing any unauthorised memorials and memorabilia as of week commencing August 5. 

"We would kindly ask that you remove any items before this date.

"Any items remaining will be removed and safely stores and can be collected during working office hours. 

"If you require any information regarding memorials, please contact the main office in person or telephone 01292 266051."

However, members of Ayrshire Baby Loss Support, a non-profit organisation that offers support in various ways to anyone affected by baby loss, have slammed the decision after getting in contact with the Advertiser. 

One said: "As a parent there are only a few hanging items from the tree or flowers or small teddies.

"There is no large items or anything causing any harm to the tree or surrounding areas."

Another added: "That’s disgusting, families that have lost their poor children and it’s the only place they can give their children wee gifts at their graves and they can’t even do that. How cruel."

A South Ayrshire Council spokesperson said: “We understand the importance of having memorial space for families.

"Families can lease a memorial tree, shrub, rose or bench, or purchase a stone memorial, enabling them to have a space in which they can place tributes.

“However, memorials are also being placed outside designated areas. It has become difficult to maintain the gardens to the high standard that the public expect and we are therefore asking families to collect these items.

“We have completed the building of a memorial for babies, which will soon be officially opened by the Ayrshire Baby Loss Support Group.

"The memorial has seating and two small solar fountains. A memorial box will also be introduced, into which families can place memorials or items to commemorate special dates.

“We are currently in the process of developing our memorial policy for South Ayrshire, which will outline what we can offer families who wish to have a memorial for their loved one.”