Town bans memorial benches after being overwhelmed with them

There are 275 memorial benches across Hartlepool in varying conditions (Picture: SWNS)

A seaside town has put a moratorium on memorial benches after installing so many that residents say they are blocking pavements.

Hartlepool has 275 benches, prompting complaints they cause issues for pushchairs and wheelchairs.

Instead, the local council wants grieving families to plant trees in honour of their loved ones.

The town’s residents (nicknamed Monkey Hangers after locals...