Light up a Life appeal launched

3:36pm Monday 1st December 2008

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PEOPLE can dedicate remembrance messages to loved ones on Christmas trees in Wear Valley this Christmas.

The Light up a Life appeal, raising money for the Butterwick Hospice, was launched this week, as Christmas trees of remembrance were unveiled in the district.

Members of the public can write messages on a bauble to hang on the tree, in return for a donation towards the hospice.

Last year’s appeal raised over £3,000, and hospice fundraiser Barbara Fountain said people of all ages, and from all walks of life left messages.

"It is not just for church goers, you don’t have to be religious to leave a message on the tree," she said.

"Sometimes children leave messages to their pets on them, that’s why it is called a tree of remembrance."

Trees are located in the Newgate Centre, Bishop Auckland, and the Co-operative, Crook throughout the festive season.

A Light up a Life service takes place at Woodhouse Close Church, Bishop Auckland on December 16, and a Festival of Trees takes place at Lydia Street Methodist Chapel, Willington from December 5 to 7.