A CHARITY is inviting people to remember their loved|ones this Christmas at two remembrance services in Mid Devon.

Hospiscare is inviting people to attend services in Crediton on December 5 and Tiverton on December 6.

The service at Holy Cross Church in Crediton will begin at 7.30pm with the service at St Peter’s Church in Tiverton at 7pm just two of the 11 being held across mid and east Devon during the Christmas period.

The remembrance services are open to anyone who wants to honour and remember those they have lost, at what can be a difficult time of year.

Hospiscare chaplain Nigel Mason said: “Hospiscare invites us all to remember loved ones who have died and invites everyone to attend the Service of Light where candles will shine brightly in their memory.”

Everyone attending the services will be given a candle to light in memory of their loved one, which will illuminate the altar during prayers, readings and hymns.

A choir at the service in Tiverton will sing along with hymns and perform an anthem after a period of reflection.

The Services of Light have been a source of comfort to many since they began in 2001 and are often a chance to talk and share thoughts with Hospiscare support groups and Hospiscare nurses and members of staff who attend the services.

Hospiscare support group co-ordinator Barry Carpenter said: “The run up to Christmas can be a difficult time for those who have been bereaved – we are told to have a wonderful and happy Christmas but, for some, it is a time that brings to mind how much loved ones are missed.

“Our services are there to recognise this and give comfort.”