THE town looks set to sparkle this Christmas after the first donations rolled in to our appeal to light up Bromsgrove in memory of a loved one.

For the sixth year running, your No.1 community newspaper, the Bromsgrove Advertiser/Messenger, has teamed up with the Primrose Hospice and Cancer Help Centre for the Lights of Love appeal.

It is hoped the appeal will raise more than last year's £12,000 total for the Finstall-based hospice which provides care and support for cancer patients, their families and carers.

Everyone who donates to the Lights of Love campaign can have a light in memory of a friend or relative on the huge Christmas tree which will be erected in Mill Lane, this Sunday, November 11.

Names of loved ones and donors will be printed around the base and will also be on display in a book of remembrance at Bromsgrove Methodist Church, in Stratford Road, from December 1 until January 5 2002.

Once again, hospice patron Viscount Cobham has donated the 30ft plus Norwegian spruce.

Primrose fundraising manager Jane Wardman said: "I am delighted with the response we have received so far."

Bromsgrove District Council chairman Mike Gill will officially switch on the illuminations at 3pm on Sunday November 18, when there will also be carol singing, hot mince pies and mulled wine.

If you would like to help the hospice, and remember a loved one, fill in the form in the Advertiser/Messenger this week on Page 10.

For more information, call the hospice on (01527) 875444.