People have been urged to stop scattering ashes in parks.

Adur and Worthing Council have issued a warning to residents that scattering the ashes of their loved ones in parks and open green spaces is not allowed and can harm the environment.

The councils said they had become aware of a “small number” of people doing this.

A council spokesman said ashes contain toxic materials that can damage plants and trees and raised concerns that the local authority’s gardening teams could unwittingly “disturb” remains.

“While it’s nice that people want to remember their loved ones at our green spaces, the scattering of ashes at our parks and open spaces is not permitted,” the council said.

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“Ashes can negatively affect green spaces as they contain toxic minerals that interfere with soil fertility, which could lead to plants or trees being damaged. As a burial authority, we also have a legal responsibility to record where ashes have been scattered.

“There is also a risk of our teams unknowingly disturbing your relatives or pet's remains while maintaining our green spaces, something which would not be in keeping with someone’s final resting place."

The council said ashes can be scattered at Worthing Crematorium or interments can be arranged at Worthing Crematorium, Durrington Cemetery, Mill Lane Cemetery, Southwick Cemetery or Lancing and Sompting Cemetery.

To find out more about these services people can call 01903 872678 or email cemetery@adur-worthing.gov.uk