COUNCIL chiefs will stop placing memorial plaques on public benches at the end of the month.

Due to an increase in demand, and the local authority apparently running low on benches to place the plaques on, no new applications will be accepted after Monday, September 30.

North Ayrshire Council currently offer to put memorial plaques on existing benches for £70 + VAT, while a new metal bench with a plaque can be installed for £950 + VAT.

However, North Ayrshire Council say they have had to stop taking applications ‘for the time being’ adding that they will explore ‘alternative options for families’.

A North Ayrshire Council spokesperson said: “We appreciate that memorial benches/plaques can provide real comfort for families.

“Due to an increase in demand we have taken the decision to stop the application process for the time being.

“We are currently looking at various alternative memorial options for families.”

For more information on purchasing memorial benches from North Ayrshire Council visit their website at www.north-ayrshire.gov.uk/birthsmarriages-and-deaths/deaths/memorial-bench-plaque.aspx