CHRISTMAS can be a difficult time for those who have lost a loved one.

But an Oxfordshire cancer charity has offered people a chance to pay tribute to their cherished family and friends, while helping those who are still suffering with the disease.

Macmillan Cancer Support has launched the Trees of Thought appeal at Oxford Castle.

For a minimum donation of £2 people can visit the castle, in Castle Street, and hang a message on one of three trees in the specially created Winter Wonderland.

Visitors to the O3 Gallery at the castle can also leave a message of hope and reflection in the Macmillan Trees of Thought Book.

Ben Edward, 25, of Carterton, will remember his mother Julia Edward this Christmas.

The father of two said when he hangs the bauble on the tree in honour of his mother, who passed away after battling urinary system cancer last August, he will remember the bond between her and his eldest daughter Niamh, four.

He said: “They were very close.

“My mother was a down to earth, funny woman who everybody loved.

“She was always putting others before herself.

“She was just selfless.

“When I put the bauble up I will remember the looks on my mother and daughter’s face as they played during their little time together.”

Macmillan nurses cared for Mrs Edward during her illness, and according to Mr Edward gave invaluable support to the family through the difficult time.

Money raised from the initiative will help aid Macmillan's work as a source of support for people affected by cancer.

As well as paying towards Macmillan nurses and other Macmillan health care professionals, donations also help the charity provide the most up to date and reliable information for people affected by cancer.

Julian Knowles, fundraising manager for Macmillan Oxfordshire, said all were welcome.

He said: “This is a good opportunity for people to come along and make a donation in memory of their loved ones over the Christmas period.

“There are three trees at the castle so there will be plenty of room for people who want to leave a message.

“This is the first year we have done this, but we hope to raise as much as we can.

“We would like to invite everybody who has been affected by cancer to make a donation.”

The Trees of Thought are now open at the castle.

  • To donate online go to justgiving.com/ macmillantreesofthought