Holding candles aloft in memory of their loved ones, Andrea Calvesbert previews the big switch-on which helps to raise thousands of pounds for local charities.

EVERY year people in Evesham and Worcester help to raise thousands of pounds for local charities whilst remembering people they love.

The Tree of Light in Evesham and a similar project in Worcester, known as Lights of Love, gives people the chance to 'buy' a light in memory of someone who has died or is absent and at the same time helps to light a beautiful tree for Christmas and raise money for many charities in Evesham and for St Richard's Hospice in Worcester.

In Worcester, the lights are dedicated to special friends and family and donations help fund St Richard's Hospice at Rose Hill and the new hospice being built near County Hall to care for people with life-limiting illnesses.

The lights are switched on during a celebration evening which starts with a special Lights of Love service at Worcester Cathedral, this year on November 17, 6.30pm for 7pm. See www.strichards.org.uk for more information.

Evesham has an American Red Cedar Tree of Light on Waterside organised by the Rotary Club which uses donations to help all its charities. This is decorated with the lights each year and switched by the mayor during a ceremony of celebration and remembrance.

It began in 1999 when it raised £7,000 and has grown each year in popularity as a way to remember people at Christmas until last year when it raised £17,200.

Anyone wanting to find out more should check the local press or contact Glenn Webb on 01386 870708.