A community gathered around a Christmas tree to remember lost loved ones.

Families and individuals mourning lost loved ones took part in Peace Hospice Care's Lights of Love ceremony, held outside the Mops and Brooms pub on Monday.

As lights shone out from a tree in memory of the departed, a wall of messages served as a reminder of the loss felt by those left behind.

Hospice director of fundraising Ropinder Gill said: “The hospice cares for many patients and families in Potters Bar and this event is an important part of our year. We will continue that support by raising more than £4 million in charitable income a year.

“We thank all the sponsors tonight for their donations and we thank all the volunteers for their support.

“We also thank the community for continuing to fundraise for Peace Hospice Care so we can offer support to patients with life limiting illnesses and their families in the years ahead.”

Peter Finn, of Borehamwood, who lost his wife Clare, was chosen to switch on the Lights of Love tree and shared his story in the hospice Christmas appeal.

He said: “I hope my story will encourage people to donate and show their support. I feel it is really important.”