Charity bosses have revealed that Norfolk is set to benefit from 10 new nurses as a record number of people came together to remember lost loved ones at a moving service.

Norwich Cathedral was at full capacity as more than 550 people attended Marie Curie's annual Lights to Remember Service tonight (Tuesday).

The event, held in conjunction with the Eastern Daily Press, gave families and friends of all ages the chance to think of those who would not be with them this Christmas.

The annual non-denominational service is one of the biggest of its kind in the country and in the run up to the event, people were asked to sponsor a light on the Cathedral Christmas tree in memory of a departed friend or relative.

The Christmas tree was lit for the first time during the service by the Lord Mayor of Norwich Jenny Lay and the Sheriff of Norwich Chris Higgins.

There were also readings and carols, including Candlelight Carol sung by Norwich Lower School Choir.

During the service, Deven Seetanah, Marie Curie nurse service manager for Norfolk, said the charity had raised enough funds to provide 10 new nurses in the county.

Judith Hall, area manager for Marie Curie Cancer Care, said: 'It was a fantastic evening and we had the most people we've ever had, it really was incredible.

'People who came loved the service and it's great news that we are able to get 10 new nurses in Norfolk, that's going to make a really big difference.'

Other carols sung on the night included Once in Royal David's City, O Come All Ye Faithful and Hark! The Herald Angels Sing .

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

Marie Curie Cancer Care provides free high-quality nursing to people with terminal cancer and other illnesses, who want to be cared for at home surrounded by their family.

The charity's nurses offer specialist care and emotional support to patients at the end of their lives and also their families, and they often work through the night to make it possible for people to live their last days at home.

It costs �20 an hour to fund a Marie Curie nurse.

For more information, go to www.mariecurie.org.uk.

kate.scotter@archant.co.uk