There is a Christmas tree in Stratford that is being decorated with memories and love as the Hospice Christmas Tree outside the TSB bank is filling up daily with handwritten messages to loved ones who have passed away.
The Hospice Tree of Remembrance is an annual event that has been running for some years, and Taranaki Hospice trustee, Judy Drummond, says it is a way for people to take a moment and remember those who will not be at the Christmas table this year. "It doesn't matter if they have passed away recently or some years ago, the tree gives people a chance to quietly remember that person and acknowledge them in some way."
Dawn Webb, one of the tree volunteers, says that often people like the opportunity to tell the volunteers about the person they are hanging a decoration for.
"It is good to be able to share your memories and to talk about them, so we listen, it is a privilege to be able to hear their stories."
Christine Taylor, a Taranaki Hospice trustee, says the Tree of Remembrance is a simple concept. "You make a donation, receive a remembrance card and write your message before placing it on the tree." All the cards from trees around Taranaki are then gathered up and taken to Taranaki Hospice where a special, non-denominational service is held before the ashes from the cards are scattered in the garden.