MACMILLAN Cancer Support held its annual Tree of Hope Service at St Mary’s Church, in Easebourne, last Thursday.

The 2014 Book of Love and those of the previous five years were on display in the church both before and after the service. Rev Derek Welsman led the service inside St Mary’s with carols accompanied by Midhurst Rother College band and Easebourne Primary School’s junior choir performed two enchanting songs.

After the service the congregation proceeded outside for the lighting of the tree by the Midhurst Macmillan Palliative Care Service team.

Mulled wine was prepared by the Cowdray Café with the wine provided by Jacaranda Catering and the parish of St Mary’s Church donated the mince pies.

These were served by Macmillan volunteers from a marquee donated by Petworth Marquees. Stagecoach and driver Rob Jones provided the shuttle bus, and James Campbell printed the programmes. Midhurst Rotary Club organised the car parking.

Tree of Hope Committee member Karen Lang said: “Despite the wet and windy weather the church was packed and the evening was a great success.

“We are very grateful to all our loyal volunteers and the local community who continue to support this very special local event.

“All donations received go to the Macmillan Midhurst Specialist Community Palliative Care Service, to support their patients and their families living with cancer and other life threatening illnesses in Midhurst and the surrounding areas.”

Dedications are still being taken up to the end of December and so far this year’s event has raised just over £6,000.

Pictured: Macmillan volunteers at the annual Easbourne service