On Thursday, 16th December a special Christmas Memorial Service was held at All Saints Church in Warlingham attended by members of the Hamsey Green Support Group and others who have been bereaved.

The service, which is an annual event, was conducted by the Reverend Alan Middleton. Diane Pink, Chairwoman of Croydon District of the National Association of Funeral Directors, said: "It is a lovely service, a mixture of laughter and tears. It is not solemn and sad."

After the service the congregation enjoyed refreshments of coffee and mince pies in the vestry. Members of the congregation wrote messages in memory of their loved ones on stars for a Christmas tree that went on display at Pinks in Hamsey Green following the service.

Diane founded the Hamsey Green Support Group in 2001 for anyone who has been bereaved and the group is sponsored by Pinks Independent Funeral Directors.

"Our members are people we have carried out funerals for and any other members of the public who want to come," explained Diane. "Everyone is welcome and we arrange transport for those who have difficulty travelling."

The group meets on the first Thursday of each month. For more information call Diane on 020 8657 9922.