Severn Hospice is encouraging residents to attend its annual Lights of Love service which takes place at St Chad’s church, in Shrewsbury for the first time.

The event allows people to come together to remember those who will not be here at Christmas.

As well as the new location the charity has also announced it will be holding two services this year. The first will be held at 3pm followed by a second service at 6.30pm.

The yearly Lights of Love appeal, which raises thousands of pounds to support the charity’s work, asks local people to dedicate a light on the Severn Hospice Christmas tree in memory of a loved one.

People can also dedicate a light to someone special online, where all the messages of remembrance made through the charity’s website will be displayed on a virtual tree in addition to the main Christmas tree.

Sarah Hawthorne, fundraising events organiser for Severn Hospice, said: “Our Lights of Love service is close to the hearts of so many people.

“Anyone who has lost someone close to them is welcome to participate. Although this is a key event in the hospice calendar it is not solely for those who have experienced our care.

“The service will be hosted once again by Krissi Carpenter and will feature performances from soprano Jayne Carpenter. We will also be joined by Newport Male Voice Choir and members of the RAF Cosford Band.

“We made the decision to move our Lights of Love service to St Chad’s after last year’s event which saw over 600 people join us for both services at Shrewsbury Abbey. St Chad’s offers a beautiful location and can accommodate larger numbers without compromising the view of the service.

“Following the services the Lights of Love tree will be relocated to shine out until twelfth night at the entrance to our hospice in Bicton Heath, Shrewsbury.

“The money we raise from our Lights of Love will enable us to be there for those who need our specialist care and support this Christmas.”

For more information about this year’s Lights of Love service or to find out how to dedicate a light please call the Appeals team on 01743 354 450. Alternatively visit www.severnhospice.org.uk to make a tribute on the virtual tree.