The Tree of Light comes on in Malvern's Priory Park to remind us of loved ones

About 100 people braved the winter chill to attend the ceremony, which was organised by Malvern Rotary for the 13th year.

Rotary'sTree of Light campaign has a two-fold aim - to allow people to remember their loved ones as Christmas approaches and to raise money for good causes.

This year the campaign is supporting St Richard's Hospice and Malvern-based charity ARCOS, plus a number of other causes that Rotary helps throughout the year.

These include Polio Plus, Hope and Homes for Children, FOAG, Mercy Ships, and Shelter Box. It also sponsors the provision of extra facilities at the Cube and supports young people from Malvern who volunteer to work in developing countries.

The Chase Brass band provided seasonal music at Monday's event, while Rotary's president-elect Barry Jones gave a speech thanking everyone for their contributions and Rev Roger Watson led the prayers.

And the lights were switched on by Keith Clingan, who has been involved with the project since it started.

Michael Barraclough of the club said: "Keith was the man who got it all going. The Rotary Club in Evesham had been doing it for some years, so Keith visited them and found out all about it, and started it here in Malvern.

"It's difficult to say exactly how much we have raised so far this year, because we have to get all the Gift Aid money in, but I think it will be close to the £12,000 we raised last year."

The names of people being remembered in their absence are being displayed on a screen in the foyer of Malvern Theatres. The list of names will also be visible on Rotary's website at rotaryrobi.org/clubs/homepage.asp/ClubID-611 and in this newspaper before Christmas.

People can still make a donation and have their loved one remembered, with their names displayed on the screen, up until January 6.

For details email mickwasley@gmail.com of send information to Mick Wasley, 18 Ham View, Upton-upon-Severn, WR8 0QE.