THOUGHTS are turning to the festive season at Ilkley's Ardenlea Marie Curie Centre.

The Queen's Drive-based centre is holding its Lights to Remember scheme once again and fundraisers would like Olicanians to build on the success of last year's event.

A £5 donation will purchase a light to decorate a huge conifer in the grounds of the centre. Lights can be bought for anyone - a friend or relative who has passed away, someone who will be away for Christmas or even to mark a birthday or anniversary.

All the chosen names will be placed in a special book which will be on view in the centre.

Brenda Doyle, Ardenlea fundraiser, said: "Last year we were quite overwhelmed with the response. Not only how enthusiastically the idea was greeted but the sentiments expressed by the purchasers."

She said: "Christmas is obviously an emotional time and as well as raising money for the centre it also provided a focus for people."

The lights will be switched on at 5pm on Sunday December 5 with the singing of carols accompanied by the Guiseley Band. This will be followed by coffee and mince pies.

Mrs Doyle said: "Last year the tree looked wonderful and was a real focal point with 1,000 lights shining out until Twelfth Night and more than 200 people attending the switching on. This year, of course, we would like even more lights to decorate the grounds."

By public request the switch on takes place an hour earlier than last year. Anyone who would like to buy an Ardenlea light should contact Mrs Doyle at the Fundraiser's office on 01943 817395 or write to her at Riddings Hall, Riddings Road, Ilkley LS29 9LW to request a leaflet.

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