A CHRISTMAS tree which will allow visitors to remember their loved ones is to be installed tomorrow.

Willow Burn Hospice, in Lanchester, is launching a Tree of remembrance, which is being set up at the Matalan store in Consett.

For a suggested donation of £2, shoppers can hang a bauble on the tree in memory of a lost loved one.

Phil Veitch, from the hospice, said: "This will be the first year that we have hosted an event of this type.

"Everyone I have spoken to is really excited by it, especially given its poignancy. It will be an opportunity for people to remember loved ones at the same time as helping Willow Burn Hospice raise much-needed funds.

"This time of year is important for people who have suffered bereavement and we are indebted to our sponsors as without their help and support this event would not be possible."

The tree will be staffed by hospice volunteers and will be open from Wednesday to Saturday between 10am and 3pm until December 23.