The new Memory Tree at St Giles Hospice

People are being invited to remember their loved ones on a new memorial in Lichfield.

St Giles Hospice has unveiled the Memory Tree at its Whittington site.

Made up of 450 brass leaves that people can have inscribed with a name in exchange for a donation to the charity.

The new Memory Tree at St Giles Hospice
The new Memory Tree at St Giles Hospice

Fundraising manager Abi Mills said: “We felt it was a lovely way to remember someone who has died, whether they have received care from St Giles or not.

“The tree has already become a focal point for people when they visit the site as it is very striking and we hope it will become a wonderful memorial to loved ones from across the area.”

Funds raised through donations for the leaves will help provide care for thousands of people with potentially incurable diseases as well as offering support to their families.

The suggested minimum donation is £120 a year. After that time families can opt to have the leaf sent to them or can donate again to keep it on the tree.

The first leaf to be engraved is dedicated to Liz King, who died at St Giles two years ago. Her husband Alan has since raised £17,500 for the hospice.

He said: “St Giles only survives through the generosity of us as individuals and I take comfort from the fact that my family, friends and I can contribute in some small way to enable these kind people to help others.

“The passing of our loved ones is something so, so very hard. We must never, ever underestimate the vital work that our hospice services do.

“Most importantly, their work makes the last days of our loved ones’ lives as comfortable as possible, and when they’re no longer here they provide support to the family and friends who are left behind by helping them come to terms with their loss.”

To dedicate a leaf on the Memory Tree contact Abi Mills at St Giles Hospice on 01543 434577 or [email protected].

Founder of Lichfield Live and editor of the site.