A poignant service of remembrance returns to Norwich Cathedral next week (Tuesday, December 5).

The annual Marie Curie lights to remember service, which is open to everyone, is an annual tribute to lost loved ones as well as a thank-you to Marie Curie nurses for the special way they care for people at the end of their lives.

People who want to take part are invited to remember a loved one by writing a message of remembrance which will be displayed at the service. These can be written in advance, or on the evening – but it is worth arriving early so that the message can be added to the display.

Hugo Stevenson, community fundraiser for Marie Curie in Norfolk, said: 'Christmas is often a difficult time of year for those who have lost loved ones, so the Marie Curie service of remembrance offers communal solidarity and support at the start of the festive season, while acknowledging the wonderful work of Marie Curie.

'The nurses provide specialist care and emotional support to patients and their families at the end of their lives, a service that is totally free to anyone with a terminal illness.

'Our nurses work through the night to enable people to live their last days at home and make the most of the time they have left.'

The service is always an emotional event with readings, poems, carols and music, and during the evening, the lights on the cathedral Christmas tree are switched on.

Marie Curie is the UK's leading charity for people with any terminal illness. The charity helps people at the end of their lives, and their loved ones, by delivering expert hands-on care, emotional support, research and guidance.

Marie Curie employs more than 2,700 nurses, doctors and other healthcare professionals and, with nine hospices around the UK, it is the largest provider of hospice beds outside the NHS.

The Marie Curie Lights to Remember Service is at Norwich Cathedral on Tuesday, December 5 at 7.30pm. If you would like to dedicate a message of remembrance, please contact Hugo Stevenson on 07920 235 435. For more about Marie Curie, or to make a donation, visit www.mariecurie.org.uk