Switched on to a memory

Nov 17 2006 By Jasbir Authi

A TWINKLING tree has became a beacon of light and hope for Birmingham families.

Children gathered in the city centre to officially switch on the lights on The Tree Of Thought, in Old Square.

Each shining light on the tree has been dedicated by families in memory of a loved one they have lost.

Hundreds of Midlanders have donated at least £5 a light to Macmillan Cancer Support, the charity which has erected the trees, so they can have a light shining in remembrance during this hard time of year.

The charity has also set up a tree at Chelmsley Wood Shopping Centre, which was set to be lit last night, and at the Erdington Shopping Centre, which will be switched on next Friday.

Macmillan Cancer Support provides emotional, practical and financial help to cancer victims and their families.

Steve Dourass, fundraising manager for Macmillan Cancer Support, said: "The ceremony went really well. It was an opportunity for people to remember someone who was missing, whether through illness or if they are fighting in Iraq."

To sponsor a light, fill in and return the coupon, phone 0121 742 6393 or check out web-site www.macmillan. org.uk/birmingham.

What do you think? Contact us at www.birminghammail.net/news/yoursay