Memorial tree at Jill Glencross Funeral Directors in Dalston

The Christmas Memorial Tree for 2023, organised by Jill Glencross Independent Funeral Directors, aims to allow a place for families to place tags and baubles in memory of their loved ones, as well as raising funds for the much-loved Eden Valley Hospice.

The tree was officially opened by mayor of Wigton Christopher Scott outside of the Jill Glencross premises in Dalston on Friday, December 1.

The Christmas memorial tree for 2023 (Image: Supplied)

Christopher said: “I was honoured to have been asked to officially open the Memorial Christmas Tree at Jill Glencross Independent Funeral Directors in Dalston. Baubles, tags, and personalised items can be placed on the tree in memory of loved ones that have passed.

“It was such a lovely idea, and it brings a sense of peace to families at what can be a difficult time.

“My wife lost her father earlier this year and she and her family are planning to go and hang a bauble in memory of him.”

Four year old Connie placing a bauble on the tree for her granda Seamus Gallagher (Image: Supplied)

Newsquest Cumbria’s farming and rural affairs editor Maureen Hodges was supported by both Eden Valley Hospice and Jill Glencross Funeral Directors when her husband Peter passed away in September.

Speaking about the initiative, she said: “At times of incredible stress and hardship for families it is comforting to know that there is somewhere like the hospice that can offer care and support, not just for patients but all those whose lives are affected by devastating illness.

"The hospice relies on help from the community to continue their vital work.

“After the care and support they gave me when my husband Pete was dying from cancer I would encourage everyone to get behind them. I’d also like to pay tribute to Jill Glencross and her staff who make a very difficult time bearable.

"This is a wonderful initiative that gives people who have lost a loved one at Christmas comfort and I for one will be supporting it.”