STARS were hung on Minchinhampton’s Christmas tree in memory of loved ones at Longfield’s Light Up A Life service.

More than 200 people gathered in the Parish Church on Sunday to listen to songs and readings and sing carols before watching the tree light up.

Children from Minchinhampton Primary Academy and Tyndale Choral Society sang and Wotton-under-Edge teenager Katie Jenner, whose mum Julie has received care from the hospice team, played saxophone on Adagio and Allegro by Leonardo Vinci, and the clarinet on O Come All Ye Faithful.

Sue Fairley, a member of the chaplaincy team at Minchinhampton Baptist Church, dedicated the tree and stars during the service.

Vicki Hayward, the charity’s community and events Manager, said: “It was a really heart-warming service.

"People came along to remember those that have died and dedicate stars to them. The children sang some uplifting songs and Tyndale Choral Society were brilliant.

“It’s a happy and sad occasion but it’s always lovely to see everyone get together to share their memories and support Longfield.”

Money raised from the Light Up A Life appeal will help fund vital services for the charity which supports more than 800 people with life limiting illnesses across Gloucestershire.

More than £7,000 has been raised so far – enough to pay for 27 hours of hospice care in people’s homes.

The stars have now been hung on trees outside the Minchinhampton hospice where visitors will be able to see them throughout the Christmas period.

A service will be held at St Mary The Virgin church, Wotton-under-Edge at 3pm on Saturday, December 10.