Families and friends can come together to remember lost loved ones at Cam Valley Crematorium in Great Chesterford.

The Light a Candle Memorial Service takes place between 6.30pm and 7.30pm on Friday, December 15.

The free service will include a selection of readings and popular Christmas carols, with a chance for people to remember their loved ones in the run up to Christmas - a time people can particularly feel their losses.

Those attending are asked to inform the crematorium in advance by emailing camvalley@westerleighgroup.co.uk or calling 01799 533160.

Visitors will be able to place memorial tags on a Christmas tree, and can also light a candle of remembrance.

Cards, letters and messages can also be placed in the crematorium's Letters to Loved Ones memorial post box, which was installed earlier this year as a way for the bereaved to feel a connection to their loved ones.

Pens and cards will be provided before and after the service.

Cam Valley Crematorium manager Sam Cunningham said: "Our Light a Candle Memorial Service provides a fitting way for people to reflect and honour their loved ones during the festive season.

"For some, especially if they are quite recently bereaved, the festive period is often a time when they feel their loss more.

"This service provides a chance for people to not only pay tribute to their loved ones but also be in the company of other people who are in a similar situation, which in itself can be a source of comfort.

"We know, from feedback we’ve had in previous years, that the service brings some solace and peace to local people at this time of year.

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"Our Christmas carol service is open for anyone and everyone who lives, works or who is visiting the communities surrounding our crematorium in leading up to Christmas. Everyone is welcome."

Cam Valley Crematorium is part of Westerleigh Group, which has 40 crematoria and cemetery sites across England, Scotland and Wales.

As Christmas is a difficult time for the bereaved, Westerleigh Group is offering 10 per cent off memorials purchased between November 1 and December 31.