HOSPICE supporters are remembering their loved ones by writing their names and messages on specially designed baubles to hang on a Christmas tree.

Families and friends have been filling out heartfelt messages for someone close which are being hung on the tree outside Tesco, in The Bridges shopping centre, Sunderland, to help raise funds for St Benedict’s Hospice, in Ryhope.

The tree will be at the centre until December 20 and supporters are being asked to make a suggested donation of £2 per bauble.

Catrina Flynn, fundraising manager at the hospice, said: “It’s quite poignant when the tree is full knowing that so many people are being remembered at this time of year.

“It doesn’t have to be someone who has died, it can be someone who you can’t spend time with this Christmas for whatever reason.

“We had a lot of Chinese students last year writing notes for their loved ones because they wouldn’t be home for Christmas and they took pics next to the tree and sent them off to them.”

The hospice is looking for volunteers who can spare a couple of hours at the tree. Anyone who can help can contact 0191-512-8436.