Monmouthshire County Council has revised its controversial policy requiring families to remove precious ornaments from the graves of their loved ones.

Letters have been sent out informing families about the policy change, which will allow movable items such as pots, vases and ornaments to be placed along the grave space and not just at the top, as was previously requested.

Dozens of families at Llanfoist Cemetery were angered when they were told to remove such items and had launched a petition which attracted scores of signatures.

They’ve now heard from MCC that a decision has been made to allow certain items to be placed on grave spaces.

Under the new rules, however, the council will no longer maintain the graves. That job along with the grass cutting, will be the responsibility of the grave holder.

But if the grave is neglected, the council reserves the right to move items to the head of the grave and recommence its upkeep. The council also reserves the right to remove any items it deems unsuitable or disrespectful.

The letter from MCC’s cemeteries officer says the amendments to the policy have been introduced in the light of ‘feedback’ from local residents - and ends by apologising to the grave holders for ‘any distress or upset this process has caused’.