PEOPLE who have left permanent memorials at Pentire headland are being urged to remove the items before authorities step in to avoid any shock or upset.

Pentire Residents’ Association states authorities are due to take away votives, synthetic flowers, ornaments, marble stones, ceramics or any plastics as they can cause damage to the environment.

The group is calling on people to only leave biodegradable memorials and plants that are not alien to the landscape.

An association spokesperson said: “Flowers and tributes left in public spaces, such as the East Pentire Headland, that have special meaning to those who are bereaved are understandable and can be very poignant to read and see.

“However, we simply ask once again that these memorials be completely biodegradable to protect the land, sea, and river.

“We ask that no permanent fixtures bearing votives, synthetic flowers, ornaments, marble stones or ceramics or any plastics, are set in the ground or on the benches.

“The official metal plaques on the benches actually pay for them. Neither should living plants that are alien to the landscape be planted there in pots or in the ground. Such planting may encourage invasive species to be brought in via plant or soil.

“Additionally, counselling services routinely advise, for the sake of other vulnerable people, not to signal or commemorate any place where someone has taken their life.

“Unfortunately, this advice has particular resonance on the Pentire. We regret to have to say that all such memorials will be removed in due course by the authorities so it's best if those responsible for them do this themselves to avoid any shock or upset.

“We remind people that the beautiful Pentire Headland is a heritage site and a protected Village Green for the enjoyment of all but where certain rules apply. There is a sign in the car park reminding people of this.”