FAMILIES are being asked to remove any Christmas tributes from the graves of loved ones at Wharton Cemetery in Winsford to allow for ongoing maintenance.

Anyone who wishes to dispose of or keep their festive wreaths or flowers should remove them from the cemetery grounds and burial plots by Friday, February 15.

Cheshire West and Chester Council cemetery staff will then begin to remove any remaining Christmas tributes from Monday, February 18.

The reason for the removal of the tributes is to allow grass cutting to take place from early March.

Councillor Karen Shore, cabinet member for environment, said: “The council understands that the removal of Christmas tributes is extremely sensitive and this is why grave owners and visitors are being given early notice so that they may remove their own Christmas tribute should they wish.”

The council does not remove wreaths from private church yards.