RESIDENTS in the County Durham area are being given a seasonal opportunity to remember their lost loved ones and help raise money for charity.

Co-operative Funeralcare, in Sherburn Hill, is providing a memorial Christmas tree and inviting relatives and friends to decorate it with messages in memory of those close to them who have died.

To help get the memorial project under way, the Salvation Army Band will be joined by schoolchildren for on informal dedication on Thursday, at 6.30pm.

The tree is also seen as a focal point of remembrance for the families of those affected by this year's many disasters around the world.

Manager of the Co-operative Funeralcare Gateshead and East Durham area, Bobby Hopkin-Hoggarth said: "We know that Christmas, in particular, is a time when people look back and remember those they've lost, or reflect on the events of the past 12 months.

"We hope that placing a poem, letter, prayer or just a one-line message on our tree, will benefit everyone in the community, who for whatever reason, wishes to use the tree as a focal point of remembrance.''

She added: "If any one wishes, they may also leave a small donation which this year will go to the Shelter charity."

Other memorial trees will also be on display in Co-operative funeral homes in Wheatley Hill, Gilesgate, Horden, Seaham and Murton.