PEOPLE across the district are being encouraged to pay tribute to someone special in their lives by taking part in the 2015 Telegraph & Argus Christmas Star Appeal which begins today.

Golden stars are to be hung on the City Hall Christmas Tree in December by Bradford people wishing to remember absent loved ones or to celebrate those people who have made a difference throughout the year.

Last year, a total of 200 stars were hung from the tree in City Hall. This year's nominations will be unveiled at a special Christmas Star Appeal event, being held at City Hall, on Thursday, December 3, hosted by the Lord Mayor of Bradford Councillor Joanne Dodds.

"The Christmas Stars Appeal is a lovely way for people to remember loved ones and raise money for the Lord Mayor's Appeal.

"My star is for Peter Hobson, my dad, who sadly passed away in 2010. People say that I take after him and I feel it is such a shame that he was not able to see me become Lord Mayor, as I feel he would have been so proud," Cllr Dodds said.

Proceeds from the Christmas stars will go towards the Lord Mayor's Appeal, which this year is supporting Bradford Hospitals Children’s Charity and her Spread a Smile scheme offering grants to organisations and smaller groups across the Bradford district.

In order to nominate a loved one for a star, fill in the coupon printed in the T&A 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 1pm, to pay by credit or debit card.

The closing date for nominations is Friday, November 27.

You will then be invited to the Banqueting Suite at City Hall on Thursday, December 3, 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.