A SERVICE is to be held to remember babies who have died.

The stillbirth and neonatal death charity Sands has organised the Lights of Love Service taking place at St Barnabas Church, in Bournmoor, near Chester-le-Street on Friday, December 9.

The Durham and Wearside branch of the national charity has organised the non-denominational evening of traditional carols, inspirational readings and musical performances, which starts at 7.30pm.

It is one of 13 Lights of Love Services taking place around the country in the run-up to Christmas.

Charity chief executive Dr Clea Harmer said: “The death of a baby or loved one is difficult at any time of the year.

"At Christmas, with so much emphasis on children and families sharing happy times together, the feelings of grief can often seem overwhelming.

"The welcoming atmosphere of St Barnabas provides the perfect setting for a candlelit service and an opportunity of peace and reflection to remember loved ones who are no longer with us.”

Those attending this service will be able to add a special message in memory of their son or daughter to a handmade tag to hang on the ‘Lights of Love’ Christmas tree.

Thousands of babies die each year in the UK. In 2015, 15 babies were stillborn or died within the first four weeks of life every day, shattering the lives of expectant parents, their families and friends, and the people who cared for them.

For further details please visit www.uk-sands.org or contact Ashleigh Corker on 07514 74134.