A proposed boycott by Cornish Jews has led a fishing town to reconsider its decision to erect a sign naming a local park "Hitlers Walk".

The unusual title was originally created by Mevagissey residents in the 1930s in reference to an unnamed, despotic local councillor, but the sign was removed in 2005 following objections.

Harvey Kurzfield, chairperson of the Cornish Jewish community, reportedly called the decision to reinstate the sign - taken days after Holocaust Memorial Day - "outrageous and completely unfeeling", and urged Jews not to visit the town.

However, John Daniel, a parish councillor, said the council had postponed reinstating the sign following the reaction from local Jewry and a backlash in the national press.

He said: "There was no intention of upsetting the Jewish community; I'm aware they're all very lovely people. I have nothing against them.

"I admit that it was the wrong time to be thinking about putting the sign back up. We're delaying it now. I assume we'll discuss it at the next parish council meeting, on February 12."

Mr Daniel added that a boycott would be unfair on the town, particularly as the park would continue to be called "Hitlers Walk" by locals regardless of whether there is a sign.

The vice-chairperson of the Cornish Jewish community, Bonnie Rockley, welcomed the decision and said she believed the Mevagissey council had not meant to offend anyone.

Mrs Rockley, a retired nurse, said: "I think it's wonderful they've decided not to put the sign up at the moment. It's one of the most sensible things they've done lately.

"We can't ask for too much at once, for total miracles, but it's a great sign that they're listening. I'm sure they'll come to their senses. I'm also sure no-one meant any harm at all."

The growing Jewish community in Cornwall, known as Kehillat Kernow, includes more than 50 families across the county.