FAMILIES supported one another as they remembered loved ones in a poignant event which raised money for the Lord Mayor's Appeal.

Around 200 people paid tribute to someone special in their lives by taking part in the 2015 Telegraph & Argus Christmas Star Appeal.

They gathered last night to place golden stars on the Christmas Tree inside City Hall in an event which raised much-needed money for two good causes.

Among those present was Paul Clay, 30, from Shipley, who placed a star in memory of his mum, Carol, who died last year aged 53.

Mr Clay said: "Christmas was my mum's favourite time of year and she is always in our thoughts. It is nice to come here to commemorate her."

Margaret and Joseph Conlon, of Otley Road, Bradford, placed a star in memory grandson Lee Firth, who suffered a fatal stab wound at a house in Halifax in 2002.

The 18-year-old, from Greengates, was about to embark on a career as a model.

Mrs Conlon said: "He was a lovely boy, very kind. We have placed a star on the Christmas tree for many years."

Naz Rafiq, a volunteer with Bradford Hospitals Children's Charity, one of two charities supported by the Lord Mayor, placed a star in memory of her son, Uzair, who died at the age of three months in 2008.

Five generations of the Fortune family from Shipley were present to remember Jack Fortune, who died aged 67 in 2000.

Widow Audrey Fortune was the eldest at 79 and great great grandson Logan, just two months, was the youngest family member present.

A couple from Idle, Bradford, were there to remember their son. Joan and Gil Wilkinson placed a star on the tree in memory of son Paul who was 47 when he died in 2013 following an illness.

Mrs Wilkinson said: "People don't have graves to visit any more so we come here. I wrote 'in remembrance of a well-loved son' on the star. This is our third year at this event."

Lord Mayor Councillor Joanne Dodds said proceeds would go towards supporting Bradford Hospitals Children’s Charity and her Spread a Smile scheme which offers grants to organisations and smaller groups.

In a speech to appeal supporters, she said: "We are now in our 11th year and it has become such a wonderful, special event. I have talked to some of you tonight and found out just how important this event is to you - it's like a personal memorial."