A special memorial service offering people the chance to remember their loved ones will take place this Christmas.

Distington Hall Crematorium will host its second annual Christmas event on Wednesday, December 18, including carols, music and readings, followed by light refreshments.

Guests will also have the opportunity to light a candle or hang a tag on the Christmas tree in memory of a loved one.

A new addition to the service this year will be a visual tribute, with loved ones’ names displayed on the crematorium’s screens.

James Hunter, Copeland council's parks and open spaces manager, said: “We held a Christmas event for the first time last year and it was incredibly well received, so we’re delighted to be holding it again at this special, and often poignant, time of year.

“We’ve decided to introduce an annual programme of special events – at Christmas, Father’s Day, Mother’s Day and during Baby Loss Awareness Week – to help change people’s impressions and perceptions of the crematorium.

“Naturally, people associate the crematorium with a sad occasion of a loved one’s funeral.

"However, we hold these events to invite friends and family back to the venue to celebrate and remember their loved ones in a positive and uplifting family service.

“The feedback we’ve had has been incredibly positive and we’re pleased that our guests receive some comfort and support from our team and our services.”

To have a loved one’s name included in the visual tribute, telephone 01946 830561 or email distingtonhalladmin@copeland.gov.uk before December 11.

The event on December 18 begins at 6pm. Entry is free and there is no need to book a place.