A LOCAL bereavement charity has been involved in a special remembrance event.

Hexham Compassionate Friends Support Group was invited to take part in Hexham Abbey’s Festival of Flame Elegy and Hope.

The theme of loss and optimism for the future ran through the installations, soundtrack and performances of the day.

A Tree of Life installation was created using candles to symbolise each person who has died as a result of Covid in Northumberland.

A candelabra was also adorned with memories of children who had died, organised by the Hexham Compassionate Friends Group.

Festival of Flame event is run by Hexham Community Partnership and funded by Hexham Town Council, Northumberland County Council and Northumberland CVA.

The act of collective remembrance, music, poetry and art for people of all faiths and none was cancelled in 2020.

The Compassionate Friends is a national charity which supports bereaved parents and their families. It runs a helpline, open seven days a week, grief companions service, online support and local support groups.

Hexham’s Compassionate Friends Support Group meets on the second Thursday of each month.

During the pandemic, the group’s meetings were held online but in May, as restrictions eased, members new and old were able to meet for a walk.

The group is on the hunt for a venue where its members can meet regularly in a safe space to share their loss with others.

Anyone who could help is asked to email tcfhexham@yahoo.com.

Anyone interested in finding out more about the group or in need of support should, contact Lucy Blaylock and Barbara Duggan by emailing them at tcfhexham@yahoo.com.