Chirk relatives remember lost ones at Tree of Light event

Organised by Chirk Hospital Circle of Friends, the Tree of Light event allows people to remember lost loved ones by putting their names on a Christmas Tree of Remembrance.

More than 50 people attended the event as the names of loved ones were read out in the main entrance to the hospital.

Circle of Friends member Julie Fawcett, said she believes the event is vitally important for people at this time of year.

She said: “It’s something that grows and grows each year, it’s really touching to see.

“It’s extremely important to have periods of reflection like this, especially at this time of year.

“You do feel it more at Christmas when someone is not here anymore.

“I have to read out my own parents names at the service, and we have people who have lost relatives younger than themselves reading names out too.”

Hundreds of names were put up on the tree, with relatives of people from Chirk, Weston Rhyn, Gobowen, St Martins and Cefn in attendance.

Julie said it is nice to have people from several communities finding the event beneficial.

She said: “People come from all over the region, and I think they come because, I hope, it brings comfort to them.

“Having other people here who have been through similar things can help people in what can be a difficult time.

“It’s really well-received and that’s really heart-warming to see.

“It’s something I start preparing for quite early.”

Julie said it is important to remember how difficult Christmas can be for some people.

“I think Christmas can be a difficult time in particular for a lot of people, so it’s important not to forget that,” she added.

“There can sometimes be quite an emphasis on being happy and jolly at Christmas, and that isn’t always easy.

“Each person has different circumstances.”

There is still time to add names of relatives or friends to the tree at the hospital.

A book will be left open in the entrance of the hospital for people to add names to.