A CHARITY is holding an event for people who will be lonely this Christmas in Frenchay on Monday.

Macmillan Cancer Support is bringing its Tree of Hope initiative, to remember lost loved ones, to Frenchay Common on Monday, December 9 (6.30pm) at St John the Baptist Church.

A service will feature harmonies from the Bristol Voices Community Choir and Macmillan volunteers and support staff will share some of their stories.

Guests will then gather around the Christmas tree outside as it is illuminated by Cllr Ian Boulton, chairman of South Gloucestershire council, before everyone is invited to tie a ribbon to the tree and take one home for their own tree in memory of those dear to them before being invited back into the church for mince pies and mulled wine.

Local Macmillan fundraising manager, Jenny Marshall, said: “This promises to be a very special event for the whole family where guests can enjoy beautiful choral music and remember the people they have loved and lost.

“With your help we can make sure there are more nurses and therapists to help everyone through treatment and enough expert advisers on the end of the phone. We understand that Christmas can be a costly time of year, so we are just asking people to make a donation they’re comfortable with.

“If you’re unable to attend the evening, or would prefer to remember your loved ones privately you’re more than welcome to visit and tie the ribbon to the tree in your own time. It will be on display outside of the church until the New Year.”

If you would like to make a donation to the Frenchay Tree of Hope and receive a pair of Macmillan ribbons email fundraising@macmillan.org.uk or call 0300 1000 200.