A Millport resident has said she was left shocked after seeing ashes of a bereaved person that had been scattered on a popular seafront beauty spot which is popular with children and families.

Judith Moore said she could not understand why the particular area, by the footpath along Marine Parade, had been used.

The grandmother pointed out it was a very busy area, near where children play, and was well used by locals and visitors alike.

Judith said: “My grandchildren play about here, our dogs are walked along this path. they sniff the benches, so they will get this on their paws and bring it into the house.

“It is not pleasant for those of us who live here, and not a good advertisement for the hundreds of visitors who cycle along this footpath. North Ayrshire environmental health say they can do nothing.” Judith added she hopes something similar will never happen again at the scenic seafront area, and said: “there is a perfectly good cemetery with a garden of remembrance. We have all been in this situation when someone close to us has passed away, but putting your ashes in such a public place is unusual, and i don’t think it is acceptable.” A council spokesperson said: “Members of the public who wish to scatter ashes in public should always seek the landowner’s permission first. Unfortunately this wasn’t done on this occasion.

“Arrangements can be made for residents to scatter ashes within our cemeteries. For more information and advice contact our Bereavement Services team on 01294 310000 or email bereavementservices@northayrshire.gov.uk.”