Trees of Love: East Kent’s largest remembrance grows even bigger in 2024

This December, Pilgrims Hospices has once again partnered with members of the local community to deliver east Kent’s largest remembrance.

Herne Bay Crematorium and St Alphege Church join Pilgrims to offer more people the space to remember this Christmas.

The charity, which provides end-of-life care, is pleased to announce services in Whitstable and Herne Bay have joined the remembrance this year. The services give those who are grieving the time and space to remember during the festive season.

Those taking part are invited to dedicate a dove to be illuminated on Christmas trees across east Kent, and come together at one of the remembrance services with carols. It’s an opportunity to share memories, and take a moment during the busy festive season to remember those we love.

“Christmas is that time of year which consists of many different feelings, joy, excitement, love. But it is also for many a time for reflecting about the loved ones we have lost. The tree of love is a symbol of peace, memories and of course love. This simple gesture can bring a community together, and at Herne Bay Crematorium we are honoured to work with Pilgrims Hospices and help those on their journey of reflection.”

Damien Corlett-Oates, Herne Bay Crematorium Manager

The service at Herne Bay Crematorium is taking place on Friday 20 December, at 5pm, and those attending are invited to stay for warm refreshments of mulled wine and mince pies afterwards.

“Here at St Alphege Whitstable we are delighted to be holding a Trees of Love service with Pilgrims Hospices for the first time. Christmas is a time for fond remembrance of loved ones who used to share in our celebrations. We hope that all who come may feel the comfort and joy of gathering together and the light of hope during this festive season.”

Isobel Legg, Reader, St Alphege

The St Alphege, Whitstable service is on Sunday 8 December, at 4pm, with festive refreshments served afterwards in the church.

Pilgrims are also hosting their hospice services on Saturday 7 December, in Canterbury, Thanet and Ashford.

For more information and to take part, visit pilgrimshospices.org/treesoflove or call 01227 782 062.

Each year, Pilgrims Hospices care for thousands of people across east Kent, with services provided from its three hospice sites in Ashford, Canterbury, and Thanet, as well as in patients’ own homes. It costs over £17.2 million annually to run these services, much of which comes from the generous support of the local community.