A SPECIAL memorial Christmas carol service for people who have recently lost a loved one is to be held in Worcester.

The service - entitled For Those We Have Loved - is aimed at attempting to help bereaved city residents through what can be a very difficult time of the year.

The inter-denominational celebration of the lives of recently-deceased friends and relatives will be held at Worcester Crematorium on Friday, December 5, with ministers from all over the city officiating.

Worcester City Council's parks and cemeteries area officer, Phil Burton, said the aim of the service was to bring together people who were still coping with recent bereavements.

"It's a memorial to lost loved ones at a time when people find themselves reflecting on the past," he said.

"This is the first time we've held a carol service of this kind, and it represents an opportunity to celebrate their lives in the company of others all experiencing the same sentiments and emotions at what's often the most difficult time of the year.

He said burials and cremations need not have been in the city as the service was being held for all the recently-bereaved, and for all church denominations, including Anglican, Roman Catholic and Baptist faiths.

"Our aim is to commemorate and remember, and for people to feel that they're not alone at this most trying time of the year" he added.

He said numbers were limited to 130 seats and tickets would be allocated on a first-come, first-served basis.

Tickets are free and are available from the cemetery office weekdays between 9am and 4pm or by calling 01905 22633.