Sheffield Christmas tree memorial to those we lost this year

A memorial Christmas tree has been erected at Grenoside Crematorium in Sheffield to commemorate loved ones who have died in the area in 2020.
Watch more of our videos on Shots! 
and live on Freeview channel 276
Visit Shots! now

During November, families supported by the crematorium over the past year were invited to dedicate a personalised star to their loved ones. The stars have been placed on this year’s Christmas tree as a sign of remembrance.

Due to current restrictions, traditional memorial services are likely to be more challenging than in previous years, but the local crematorium team felt it was important to pay tribute to their community during such a difficult year.

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

The 10ft tree is in place near the Book of Remembrance Room and, it is hoped that the memorial will be accessible for socially distanced visits from family and friends.

Amy Groves, manager at Grenoside Crematorium, with the memorial treeAmy Groves, manager at Grenoside Crematorium, with the memorial tree
Amy Groves, manager at Grenoside Crematorium, with the memorial tree

The crematorium has also unveiled a plaque in the Book of Remembrance Room in recognition of all those who showed strength during the coronavirus pandemic.

The memorial pays tribute to members of the community who have lost loved ones, as well as recognising the work done by essential workers such as carers and NHS employees to protect the most vulnerable during such difficult times.

The local team will also be making a donation to the Sheffield Children’s Hospital. In total, The Crematorium and Memorial Group (CMG) will be donating £23,000 to local charities.

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

Amy Groves from Grenoside Crematorium said: “This year has been immensely challenging for our community, and will be particularly hard for those who are recently bereaved.

“With many memorial services and events unable to go ahead, we hope that our memorial Christmas tree offers comfort and reflection for those that have lost loved ones this year.

“Our teams continue to do everything possible to provide families with support at this difficult time and are committed to ensuring that families are able to arrange a respectful funeral for their loved ones.”

The firm says that employees working at CMG, which operates 46 crematoria in England and Scotland, are continuing to provide families with a high-quality service that ensures they can arrange a respectful funeral for their loved ones.

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

In these confusing and worrying times, local journalism is more vital than ever. Thanks to everyone who helps us ask the questions that matter by taking out a digital subscription or buying a paper. We stand together. Nancy Fielder, editor.