THE Tree Of Life, the annual Christmas appeal run by Teesside Hospice, has received its official church blessing.
Every year, the hospice invites people to take part in the Tree of Life appeal by remembering loved ones and friends who may not be with them at Christmas.
The tree stands in the Cleveland Centre, Middlesbrough and people are invited to hang a bauble on it.
Messages on the bauble may be for someone who has died, someone living away from home or simply a celebration of Christmas.
The tree was last night transferred from the Cleveland Centre to St Barnabas Church, Linthorpe for the blessing, carried out by the Bishop of Whitby.
Margaret Kent, from the hospice, said: "Whatever your reason, this most symbolic of acts will not only allow you to mark this special occasion but it will once again contribute to the worthwhile work of the hospice.
"There is no set charge for a bauble but any donation is gratefully received.
"The Tree of Life appeal makes a significant contribution towards the cost of Teesside Hospice continuing its care free of charge to the local community."
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