Moving Norwich service to remember loved ones

Hundreds of people came to remember the loved ones they had lost at a moving service at Norwich cathedral last night.

In a poignant occasion families and friends of all ages took a moment to think of those who would not be with them this Christmas as part of the Marie Curie Cancer Care 'Lights to Remember' service.

Once again this year an appeal was launched asking the people of Norfolk to make a donation and shine a light on the Cathedral Christmas Tree in memory of a departed friend or relative.

Marie Curie Cancer Care provides nursing care for terminally ill people to remain in the homes, and all the proceeds will be spent on providing Marie Curie nurses within Norfolk.

Deven Seetanah, Marie Curie nurse service manager for Norfolk, said: 'At Christmas having the choice to remain at home surrounded by family and friends is especially important.

'Last year, thanks to the generosity of our supporters, Marie Curie Cancer Care was able to provide nursing care all through the festive period, giving hundreds of families the chance to spend one last, precious Christmas to-gether. Donations received will allow this vital service to continue in Norfolk.'

The charity was again joined at last night's <7> service by the Choir from Norwich Lower School.

The special service included well-known carols 'Once in Royal David's City', 'O Little Town of Bethlehem' and 'Hark! The herald angels sing'.

There were also readings by Eastern Daily Press Editor Peter Waters, the charity's Patron for Norfolk Dr Iain Brooksby, General Sir Richard Dannatt, the former head of the Army, and BBC Look East presenter Stewart White.

A Book of Remembrance was also available for people to write their own messages.

Other dignitaries who attended included the Lord Mayor of Norwich, Tom Dylan, Lord Lieutenant Richard Jewson, and the Christmas tree in the Cathedral was lit by Sheriff of Norwich Derek James.

The annual non-denominational service was attended by hundreds of Marie Curie supporters and nurses, and was organised by and for Marie Curie Cancer Care in conjunction with the Eastern Daily Press. It was led by the Rev Canon Peter Doll, canon librarian of Norwich cathedral,

There is an alternative service at Bury St Edmunds Cathedral tomorrow<8> and another service was held at St Michael's Church, Beccles on Sunday, December 5.