More than 100 people remembered their lost babies at a special service held in Huddersfield.

The evening at St Thomas’s Church in Manchester Road was organised by the stillbirth and neonatal death charity Sands. Each December before Christmas the charity holds Lights of Love services in churches across the country. During the service parents and families are encouraged to light a tea light in their baby’s memory. They can also write a message to hang on a Christmas tree.

The service also featured parent speakers and instrumental and singing performances. The event, in its third year, was organised by the local branch of the charity which meets at Huddersfield Royal Infirmary.

Rachael Brann, who runs the Lindley branch of the support group, said that the service had been a big success. “Lights of Love was amazing - we had to get extra chairs out and there were over 100 people. It was heartbreaking to see all the lights lit for the babies that had gone too soon. But, the service was lovely.

“One highlight was the children’s choir who sang Away in a Manger. There were also lots of readings and we had Huddersfield People’s Choir there too.”

For more information email Rachael at huddersfieldsands@yahoo.co.uk.