We are fast approaching that time of year when all thoughts seem to turn to Christmas.

And Bradford and district is lucky to have one event that seems to capture the best of this season.

The annual Lord Mayor’s Christmas Star Appeal is a chance for people to acknowledge someone important in their lives by hanging a star bearing that person’s name on a Christmas tree in City Hall.

For some this may be a chance to say a special and public thank you – to recognise all those mums and dads, wives and husbands, boyfriends and girlfriends and other loved ones who make life so worthwhile.

To others, it may be the perfect opportunity to pay tribute to a loved one who has passed away – to remember them and all they meant at a special time of year.

Doing so is not a celebration of grief, but a celebration of the lives of those who are no longer with us.

The fact that it can mean so much to so many does, in itself, make the appeal worthwhile – for it is hard to think of another event that fits so well with the festive spirit and which has the ability to unite people from all backgrounds.

But it has, over the years, also made a significant contribution to charity by raising money for the Lord Mayor’s Annual Appeal.

It is easy to see why it has had, and will continue to have, such a special place in the hearts of Bradfordians.