It is a well-heeled village with a proud population, many of whom could be said to be getting on in years.

Now, plans for an undertakers to erect a large sign on the main road through Dersingham seem to have touched a nerve.

Locals tried to block the scheme, saying it would lead to the village being mocked by motorists as they drove through.

They say Thornalley Funeral Services' proposed sign - the planning application for which was lodged with West Norfolk Council - is too large and prominent and might lead to jibes.

Instead, they called for something "more discreet".

Eastern Daily Press: The side wall of the building, where the letters will be displayedThe side wall of the building, where the letters will be displayed (Image: Chris Bishop)

One of those to object, Steve Gilbert, posted on the council's planning portal: "I could imagine the comments of people and passing traffic, giving the village an unwarranted perception as a place for the elderly, when in fact it has a diverse population.

"It's not something I want to see on Dersingham's main junction or opposite the main play area and park for children."

It is not the first time the funeral directors have ruffled feathers in the village.

When the company was given planning permission to open the branch in a former B&B, Ashdene House, two years ago, some in the village tried to block it, saying the firm may harm trade at a nearby holiday lets.

Despite the objections, West Norfolk Council has agreed permission for the wall-mounted letters up to 0.7m (2ft) high advertising the business, at the junction of Hunstanton Road and Chapel Road.

Kate Hathaway, who also objected, added: "Ashdene House is a prominent building on the main Hunstanton Road through the village which is featured in a photograph on the company website and is not difficult to find as there are only two properties at this junction, the fish and chip shop and Thornalley's."

Eastern Daily Press: Thornalley Funeral Services in DersinghamThornalley Funeral Services in Dersingham (Image: Chris Bishop)

Dersingham Parish Council said the sign was "too large" and it would prefer "discreet signage at a lower level", while West Norfolk Council's conservation officer said it was too big and "out of proportion" for the building.

But the sign also had its supporters. Sarah Dunn said: "I support this application as bereaved people don't want to be made worse if they can't find Thornalley's, especially like my sister when she went to see our dad in their chapel of rest and couldn't find them.

"Thornalley's are an asset to our area, so I feel we should support them and also to help all future bereaved families living around us."

And Eric Mason posted: "I've noticed a comment saying the sign is a distraction. What a laugh. Every business has their company signs up."