Removal of seafront memorials is labelled 'cruel'

Toni Schofield said he was annoyed over the parish council's decision to remove memorial items from the seafront

A parish council has removed memorial items left in memory of loved ones along the seafront.

Toni Schofield, 61, who has lived in Chapel St Leonards, Lincolnshire, since he was six and who walks his dog past the memorial area every day, said he thought it was "cruel" that the items were removed.

The tributes left by locals and holidaymakers to remember those who have died included padlocks, artificial flowers, notes and engravings, and general love locks.

Chapel St Leonards Parish Council said a "collective decision" was made at committee meetings over the summer this year to remove the items, with "much thought and consideration" put into the issue.

There were several padlocks left in memory of loved ones along the sea wall

Mr Schofield, who had put up padlocks himself to remember two friends who had died, said: "It's annoyed me so much because people come here who have lost a loved one and put flowers on the railings and a padlock up.

"It's their way of trying to handle a loss. What right has somebody to come and [remove them]? I think it's cruel.

"They're tied down and not blowing into the sea."

Items included artificial flowers, padlocks, photos of loved ones and a dog collar

A spokesperson for the council said: "The council have always removed any artificial flowers along the sea wall due to environmental issues, as they inevitably blow onto the sand and ultimately the sea, causing more pollution.

"This is supported by the Environment Agency, who have also given permission for us to remove plaques which cause damage to the wall. More recently, padlocks have appeared, which are increasing in numbers.

"We have a pagoda with seating in the cemetery where plaques etc can be placed and loved ones remembered."

The council said its aim was for the village to be a "thriving seaside destination".

The spokesperson added: "We did not wish for the seafront to become a memorial walk decorated with artificial flowers, plaques and padlocks, and we hope everyone can understand the rationale behind the council's decision."

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