A thousand thanks have gone out to people in Bradford who have so far donated £1,000 to remember their loved ones at a fundraising vigil.

People who have died from cancer and other serious illnesses will be commemorated at the special event at Bradford Cathedral next month.

The Lord Mayor's Vigil of Remembrance will take place between Saturday, March 18 and Monday, March 20, to raise money for the Lord Mayor's Appeal to help build a £5.2 million Marie Curie Cancer Care Centre.

Brenda Lockwood, the Lord Mayor's Appeal co-ordinator, said: "So far we've had an excellent response and have raised £1,000.

"People can make any donation they want to remember someone in their family, or someone close to them, who has died of cancer or other serious diseases.

"We've never done anything like this before but people seem to like the idea of a special weekend dedicated to remembering lost loved ones."

During the three days, people will be able to visit the Cathedral to place daffodils on the altar and sign a book of condolence.

Participants will receive a letter of acknowledgement which they will be able to exchange for a candle to light during the vigil.

Carers will be on hand throughout the weekend to offer comfort and support to those in distress.

The Provost of Bradford, the Very Reverend John Richardson, will lead a service of remembrance on Sunday evening.

The Lord Mayor's Appeal now stands at about £30,000 but organisers are hoping to raise about £100,000 by the end of May.

"We would like it to be more but hopefully it will pick up over the next few months. We don't have a set target as such but every year we aim to raise a similar amount. Last year's total was £120,000 which was excellent,'' said Mrs Lockwood.

"Normally most of the money comes in towards the end of the appeal year so we've got our fingers crossed," said Mrs Lockwood.

Lord Mayor Councillor Harry Mason added: "We hope as many people as possible will attend the event."

Meanwhile, The Telegraph & Argus would like to hear from anyone who will be attending the vigil and the story behind their attendance. Contact the newsdesk on Bradford 729511.

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