PEOPLE wanting to remember someone special are being urged to place a dedication on Teesside Hospice's Tree of Life.

And thousands of lights were turned on in memory of loved ones during the launch while Christmas carols were performed by the Tees Valley Youth Choir to entertain shoppers in Middlesbrough's Hillstreet Shopping Centre.

The first dedication was placed by Garry Savage, funeral care manager at Colin McGinley Independent Family Funeral Service, in memory of his loved ones.

He said: “I was delighted to be asked to place the first dedication on the tree, in memory of Sylvia and Pat O’Rourke, my mother-in-law and father-in-law.

"This appeal is a special way for families, including mine, to remember their loved ones and we hope it provides comfort and support throughout the Christmas period. Our continued support for Teesside Hospice is a gesture from our local family business to show how much we appreciate everything they do for families across Teesside and surrounding areas.”

This year’s tree will be in place until Tuesday, December 18, and the dedications will then be taken to St. Barnabas Church for a special Light up a Life Service the following day at 7pm.

Teesside Hospice fundraising manager Debbie Coulson, said: “We are delighted to have the support of Colin McGinley Funeral Service and the Hillstreet Shopping Centre once again. Due to their support we can ensure that every penny donated to Light up a Life goes directly towards caring for our patients and families at the hospice this Christmas.”

For further information call 01642-811145 or visit www.teessidehospice.org