Moray couple’s ashes blasted skywards in fireworks display

A Moray couple who died just months apart had their ashes scattered across the night sky in a spectacular and poignant fireworks display.

Alex and Joan Hay’s loved ones gathered on the beach at Cullen recently to watch the pyrotechnic display unfold.

The unusual ceremony was performed at the request of Mr Hay, and 40 family members and friends were present.

Some of the couple’s favourite rock songs were played as the fireworks went up.

Their children arranged for a fish and chip van to serve suppers on the beach, and toasted the couple with Mr Hay’s favourite single malt.

The pair had been married for 44 years when Mrs Hay died of cancer last January.

Mr Hay died from a heart attack in the car park of his favourite pub, the Crannoch, in Cullen last July.

Daughter Evelyn Lawson, 43, said her dad had wanted his ashes to be fired across Cullen Bay “for as long as I can remember”.

She added: “They were a pair, so mum knew what was going to happen with the fireworks.”

The music played included My Generation, by The Who, The Rolling Stones’ Gimme Shelter and The Great Gig in the Sky by Pink Floyd.

The wind blew the ashes along the coast to Banff, Mr Hay’s hometown.