24 November 2009
United Utilities is donating seven Christmas trees from its Macclesfield Forest to support two Cheshire-based hospices with their annual appeals.
Two of the trees will be used in 'Light Up A Life' ceremonies at St Rocco's Hospice and St Elphin's Parish Church in Warrington - with the remaining five taking pride of place at East Cheshire Hospice and across its referral area.
Lara Rigby, Community and Events Fundraiser at East Cheshire Hospice, said: "Our 'Light Up A Life' appeal provides a lovely way for people to come together at Christmas time to remember their loved ones whilst supporting the work of East Cheshire Hospice.
"We are extremely grateful to United Utilities for donating the Christmas trees year on year, which provide a special focal point for our campaign.
"Three of the trees are on display here at the hospice for the benefit of our patients and their families; the remaining trees are placed at focal points within our area."
Jenny Snodgrass, Personal Assistant to the Hospice Director at St Rocco's, said: "This very special Light Up A Life Service - which will take place on Sunday, December 6 and which consists of carols, hymns and readings - means so much to the families who attend.
"The main focal point however is when the lights are switched on the large Christmas tree, which is situated outside the main reception and which will shine brightly throughout the festive season.
"This tree, with all its lights on, really does mean a great deal to our patients and their families and carers."
A second 'Light Up A Life' service will take place on Thursday, December 10 at St Elphin's Church.
The lights will be switched on this second tree during this service.
"We'd like to thank United Utilities for supporting the hospice in this way and we are very grateful for their kindness in donating two beautiful trees to us at this very special time of year," added Jenny.
The trees are grown in Macclesfield Forest, which is owned by United Utilities, and around £2,000 worth are donated each year.
The trees are grown on water catchment, which benefits water quality, and are grown to Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) standards from a sustainable source.
United Utilities' Harmen Koop, a Woodland Project Officer based at Macclesfield Forest, said: "We are very pleased to be lending our support to both hospices and we wish them every success with their appeals."
Anyone wishing to make a gift towards the 'Light Up A Life' appeal can contact the East Cheshire Hospice's Fundraising Department on 01625 433 477 or St Rocco's Hospice's Fundraising Department on 01925 575780.
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