12:00pm Wednesday 16th December 2009
By Mark Bowen
A LOVELY atmosphere in a woodland setting can be enjoyed by those taking part in a lantern walk to remember loved ones.
A Christmas lantern walk will be held for the second year running at Queenswood Arboretum, Dinmore Hill, near Leominster, on Saturday, December 19, starting at 5.30pm.
The easy 45-minute walk, led by a ranger, is being organised by Noah’s Ark Trust – a local charity which provides bereavement support for children, young people and their families when they have experienced the death of someone close.
It includes a few minutes for reflection and ends with Christmas songs led by Hereford Amateur Pantomime Society, hot drinks with mince pies and a visit from Father Christmas.
“Christmas represents an occasion for families to celebrate together,” said community fundraiser Liz Collins.
“For bereaved children, facing a future without their mum, dad or sibling is hard enough, but coping with this special time of year can prove particularly challenging.
“The lanterns and pretty woodland setting, together with a wonderful feeling of togetherness, create a lovely atmosphere for everyone to remember together.”
Last year around 300 people joined the walk, which is nondenominational and open to everyone.
Lanterns and candles can be reserved for a £5 donation and a completed registration form, printed in the Hereford Times.
Cheques should be made payable to ‘Noah’s Ark Trust’ and sent to Liz Collins, Fred Bulmer Centre, Wall Street, Hereford HR4 9HP.
More information is available by calling 01432 264555 or visit noahsarktrust.co.uk.
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