Jarrow hospice launches Memory Tree to pay tribute to lost loved ones

Co-op Funeralcare regional manager David Knowles and South Tyneside manager Dawn Noble with the newly installed Memory Tree at St Clare's Hospice, Jarrow.

St Clare’s Hospice, in Jarrow, has installed a Memory Tree with the help of its sponsor Co-operative Funeral Care South Shields.

The tree, at the hospice in Primrose Terrace, lets people engrave the name of a loved one on a leaf.

Vanessa Mustard, fundraising manager for the hospice, said: “We were delighted that Co-op was able to support us on this occasion by sponsoring the Memory Tree.

“Their support means we have been able to purchase the Memory Tree and can raise funds by asking our supporters to dedicate leaves on the tree.

“The tree is beautiful and has created quite the talking point amongst our visitors who have commented on how nice it is to be able to have somewhere to remember their loved ones.

“We often used to get people asking if they could put plaques on benches or other items in the hospice and now we have something for people to make those special dedications. The leaves on the Memory Tree are a special way to celebrate the life of a loved one, whether they have been involved with St Clare’s Hospice or not.”

The hospice provides palliative care to people with life-limiting illnesses.

Dawn Noble-Battersby, South Tyneside care centre manager for Co-op, added: “We were delighted to be approached by St Clare’s to sponsor the Memory Tree.”

There are 200 leaves available at a cost of £120 each.

To dedicate a leaf, go to www.stclareshospice.co.uk, email [email protected] or call 0191 529 7111.