THE late Evelyn Howcutt is one of many absent loved ones who will be remembered this Christmas by a special golden star hung on the City Hall Christmas tree.

Her daughters Julie Hodgson and Linda Nolan have taken part in the Telegraph & Argus Christmas Star Appeal for the last two years since their mum died. This year they intend to remember her again with a star.

Mrs Hodgson, 51, told the T&A: "It's something me and my sister and our daughters do together to remember mum. We go to the event and go out for a meal and talk and reminisce about the things mum used to say.

"She'll never be forgotten, but this is such a nice thing to do to remember someone special, plus it benefits a fantastic charity too."

Dozens of stars in total are expected to be hung on the towering tree in City Hall by Bradfordians wishing to remember absent loved ones or to celebrate those people who have made a difference throughout the year. So far more than 70 nominations have been made.

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.

DOWNLOAD YOUR CHRISTMAS STARS APPEAL COUPON

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 the Make It Happen scheme.

In order to nominate a loved one for a star, fill in the coupon printed in the T&A (or download and print here) 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 this Friday.

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.

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