Controversial plans to store bodies in a converted garage at a family home have been withdrawn.

Partners Carl Hadaway and Joanna Denton wanted to open a funeral directors at their three-bedroom home in Magazine Road opposite the junction with Albert Road.

But angry neighbours described the proposal as “truly awful and crass” - with numerous people writing to Ashford Borough Council objecting to the proposal.

The scheme has now been withdrawn by Mr Hadaway and Miss Denton, sparking relief among neighbours.

Cllr Graham Galpin, who represents the Stour ward, says the scheme was in an "inappropriate location".

"There was an awful lot of ill-feeling about the plan," he said.

"I am really pleased that the local residents got their way.

"I am not against businesses in the town centre or anywhere else, but as long as they are in an appropriate place."

The Kentish Express contacted Mr Hadaway, but he refused to comment.

If approved, the business would have been called Hadaway and Denton Independent Funeral Directors, opening from 8.30am to 5pm Monday to Friday.

One reception room at the home was due to be split into an office and a chapel, allowing mourners to view their loved ones in a "small, comfortable area" according to the applicants.

The office was proposed to become the main entrance for families arranging a funeral, while the garage would have been converted and used as a cold room and store.

An air conditioning unit to maintain a low temperature to ensure hygienic standards was earmarked to be fitted in the storeroom, while the front garden was due to be used to park any visiting vehicles.

An experienced motor vehicle engineer, Mr Hadaway worked at Charing crematorium and was previously manager of Earl & Co funeral directors in Albemarle Road.

Despite the criticism of the scheme, readers of KentOnline supported the proposal when the Kentish Express revealed the plans in February.

One wrote: "We actually live opposite a funeral parlour.

"In the beginning we were opposed to the enterprise for the same reasons as the residents, but I have to admit we were wrong.

"The whole business is conducted responsibly and without problems.

"It isn't as if things are noisy or intrusive and the least we can do is be respectful to the deceased."