A SUNFLOWER Memory Garden has opened to help families pay tribute to lost loved ones.

The garden, in Centre Square, Middlesbrough, features a Memorial Wall bearing the names of 350 treasured friends and family who have been lovingly remembered by Teesside Hospice supporters.

The event, which marks the start of two week’s remembrance and celebrating hospice care, was officially opened by Middlesbrough Mayor Dave Budd.

The impressive wall, spanning seven metres, is surrounded by 1,000 bespoke, handcrafted sunflowers created by the same team responsible for the Tower of London poppy display.

Maureen Thompson, Teesside Hospice chief executive, said, “The Sunflower Memory Garden is such an important campaign for Teesside Hospice. It provides a unique way for our supporters to remember their loved ones but also brings awareness of hospice care to the centre of the town we help.

“The poignant memorial wall stands proudly at the centre of 1,000 handcrafted sunflowers. After seeing the reaction to the poppy display at the Tower of London we wanted to recreate something similar in our area. A sunflower, the symbol of hospice care, made by the same team seemed like the perfect fit.”

Throughout the campaign the touching Teesside Hospice film, affectionately known as Mel’s Story, will feature on the large screen in Centre Square. Mel was cared for by Teesside Hospice before her death in July 2013.

Her husband, Andy Collins said: “Teesside Hospice is an inspirational place. It can offer tranquil support and recuperation but can also be a place of uplifting fun and friendships. When my wife, Mel, was first diagnosed she was lucky enough to regularly attend the day unit. She described these visits as her escape and oasis and really valued chatting to others going through the same things as her. She made many friends there.”

The Sunflower Memory Garden will be open to the public from 10am – 6pm daily until August 14.

If you would like to pre-order a handcrafted sunflower call 01642-811149 or visit www.teessidehospice.org/get-involved/sunflower_appeal