A headstone and a vase are the limit at the graveyards

Officials said that the trend towards "excessive tributes" such as vases and lanterns is making it difficult to maintain graveyards.

They said the situation had "escalated" at Hawarden No.2 cemetery.

Council rules only allow one vase along with the headstone, and officials are seeking permission to take items away.

They said that warning letters sent out to grave owners have been largely ignored, and they were now asking council leaders to approve confiscation of the unauthorised grave decorations if their warning continue to go unheeded.

They propose storing items for three months, before disposing of them if they were still unclaimed by relatives.

I am sure from the council's point of view, they have really got perhaps to the stage where they think things are getting a bit out of hand Mark Tami MP

A report about the problems at Hawarden No.2 cemetery is due to be discussed by the council next week.

An authority statement said: "All new grave owners are informed that, in lawned cemeteries, only one moveable vase is permitted along with the headstone.

"This is to enable grounds staff to maintain the cemeteries, which has become increasingly difficult and can pose a health and safety risk.

"If a similar situation arose in other lawned cemeteries we would need to look at it."

They are also said to be concerned that lights could attract antisocial behaviour to the graveyard at night.

Mark Tami, Labour MP for Alyn and Deeside, said it was "a very difficult situation".

"I am sure from the council's point of view, they have really got perhaps to the stage where they think things are getting a bit out of hand," he said.

"But equally there are relatives that feel they want to show their respect for their loved ones."