A CHARITY’S annual Sunflower Appeal has been launched to help people remember a loved one in a very special way.

Throughout the August beautifully crafted sunflowers, bearing the name of relatives or friends, are planted as part of a display within Teesside Hospice grounds.

Helen Clarkson, staff nurse at the hospice, said: “More than 150 sunflowers have been dedicated up to now and they look wonderful in the hospice grounds. Parents, grandparents, children, husbands, wives and even the hospice itself have been remembered and it is so moving and emotional seeing the display and understanding the love it represents.

“It is a privilege to be part of the care team at the hospice; we spend time getting to know our patients and their families so we can understand their needs and identify what is most important to them.

"This level of care is only possible thanks to the generosity of Teesside Hospice supporters through campaigns such as the special Sunflower Memories Appeal.”

If you would like to celebrate the life of someone you can dedicate a sunflower in their memory by visiting teessidehospice.org/get-involved/events/sunflower-memories-2014, calling 01642-811145 or by calling into Teesside Hospice reception at 1 Northgate Road, Linthorpe, Middlesbrough.