Grieving relatives have been asked to remove decorations such as toys and artificial flowers from graves.

St Michael’s and All Angels Church in Lower Church Road, Sandhurst, left notes requesting ornaments were removed following complaints from   fellow churchyard users.

Rules set by the Diocese of Oxford say “toys or other ornaments may be left at the graveside for a period of 12 months after the burial”.

The same rules ban most plastic flowers, wilted flowers and silk flowers inappropriate to the season.

A church spokesman said: “Over the past few years the number of ornaments and other materials placed by relatives on graves has increased, and a number of people have complained, mainly verbally, that these have spoiled the appearance of the churchyard.”

Items they have asked to be removed include stone chippings, models, toys, planters, lanterns and solar powered lights.

The spokesman added: “The church finds itself in a difficult position. Decorations that are meaningful to some are an eyesore to others.

“What may be fine in a private garden is not necessarily appropriate in a public space such as a churchyard. We recognise that these issues will always be tricky and we try to be sensitive.

“We would ask any relatives with concerns about the steps we have taken to contact the parish office to arrange an appointment with the rector and the church wardens.”

- Should relatives have the right to put what they want on the graves of their loved ones?