Young widow charity wins award at Worcester Cathedral Christmas tree festival

Worcester Cathedral hosted its hugely popular Christmas Tree Festival in December, with local schools, charities, and businesses providing themed Christmas trees highlighting their work within the community.

Ruth Rowlands decided to organise a tree on behalf of the Widowed and Young charity commemorating members’ lost spouses and partners.

Ruth, who moved to Worcester after her husband Harry died in 2013, felt a WAY-themed tree would be a beautiful way for members of the charity to share their love for their partners with other people – particularly at this difficult time of year.

Ruth said: “Every time I went to visit the tree, there were always people who were very much affected by it. Emotionally it was very difficult, but I’m so glad I did it. It definitely struck the right note.”

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The award winning tree was decorated with over fifty baubles and other ornaments containing photographs or mementos of lost loved ones sent to Ruth by members of the charity.

Rebecca Cooper CEO of WAY said: "We were absolutely thrilled that our tree was so popular with the public along with so many other worthy causes that were represented at the Christmas Tree Festival.

“Christmas can be such a difficult time of year for anyone who’s lost a loved one. We were delighted that some of our members took the initiative to create such a moving memorial – helping others to remember their loved ones in such a poignant setting and at the same time showing that there is support out there for people who have been widowed at a young age. Huge congratulations to Ruth and everyone else involved in creating the tree – and to everyone who voted for us!”

The tree received more than 950 votes in the People’s Choice Award.

Find out more about Widowed and Young at www.widowedandyoung.org.uk