PAY tribute to someone special in your lives by taking part in the 2014 Telegraph & Argus Christmas Star Appeal, which begins today.

Dozens of golden stars will be hung on the City Hall Christmas Tree by Bradfordians wishing to remember absent loved ones or to celebrate those people who have made a difference to others' lives throughout the year.

A total of 196 stars were hung from last year's tree, while this year's nominations will be unveiled at a special Christmas Star Appeal event at City Hall, on Tuesday, December 2, with Lord Mayor of Bradford, Councillor Mike Gibbons.

Proceeds from the Christmas stars will go towards the Lord Mayor's Appeal, which this year is supporting Marie Curie and community-based projects in the district through Make It Happen, a scheme of Coun Gibbons' devising.

The Lord Mayor said: "I will be hanging a star this year for Valerie Binney who passed away earlier this year, she was a former councillor and Lord Mayor of Bradford.

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"Valerie was a lovely lady who worked so hard for the people of Bradford over many years."

In order to nominate a loved one for a star, fill in the coupon printed in the T&A and published online and send a cheque or postal order for £5, to 'The Lord Mayor's Appeal' to: Christmas Star, Lord Mayor's Appeal. City Hall, Bradford, BD1 1HY. Or you can call (01274) 434965 Monday to Thursday, from 9am to 2pm, to pay by credit or debit card.

The closing date for nominations is Friday, November 28.

You will then be invited to the Banqueting Suite at City Hall on Tuesday, December 2, for a tea or coffee and a mince pie with the Lord Mayor to hang your Christmas Star on the City Hall tree.

The stars and invitations are created by local firm Wheelden Print, and the Co-operative provides the mince pies.

A list of all nominated Christmas Stars will be published in the T&A following the ceremony.