ST Helena Hospice is appealing for donations to its Tree of Memories appeal

The money raised will go towards helping the hospice care for patients at a hard time of year.

Linda Wilkinson arrived at the inpatient unit at Myland Hall shortly before Christmas 2016 and died on New Year’s Eve.

Barry Wilkinson, her husband of 43 years, said: "The inpatient unit was great at Christmas, we both said how lovely it was.

"It's ridiculous to say but it was one of the nicest Christmases, the whole atmosphere was nice.

"I’m not looking forward to Christmas this year, the worst thing since Linda died is being home alone.

"I’m getting used to it gradually but Christmas is going to be tricky, I think."

A service as part of the appeal will be held at Myland Hall in Barncroft Close, Colchester, on Sunday at 4pm.

Donations can be made online by visiting sthelenahospice.org.uk/memories17