Organisers of a festive remembrance event are appealing for choristers to provide some musical accompaniment to the event.

Every year the council holds a 'Tree of Light' ceremony at Macclesfield Cemetery to help families remember their loved ones at Christmas.

Bereaved relatives are invited to write a Christmas message to their loved ones on a star which is then hung on a 30ft tall yew tree at the cemetery.

The tree lights are then turned on at a ceremony with songs and carols.

But for the first time in its six year history, the council has been unable to secure a choir to perform at the event.

Christine Heathcote, from Orbitas, the company running cemeteries and crematoria on behalf of Cheshire East Council, said: “We have tried all the schools and community groups in the area, but they all appear to be committed at that particular time or unable to take part.

“It really is a great pity because without a choir or a group of singers, the occasion will not have the musical support and atmosphere it really requires.

“We are still hoping that a group of singers may come forward.”

Last year more than 200 people attended the event.

The cemetery, on Prestbury Road, Macclesfield, contains 83 war graves and a silver star bearing an individual message is also hung on the tree to remember each of the war dead buried there.

Councillor Lesley Smetham, deputy portfolio holder for Strategic Outcomes said:

“Although many of our ancestors and loved ones will have lived and died in other parts of the country or the world, we can still remember them all at our local Tree of Light Ceremony.

“If any singing group or individuals can find the time to join us at this moving event, we will be very pleased to welcome them.”

“The event will go ahead with or without a choir, but it is an occasion made all that more special by the accompaniment of trained singers such as a choir.”

The event is non-faith specific and takes place on Friday, December 12.

If you know of a choir or a group of singers prepared to come to the rescue this year contact Christine Heathcote on 01625 383948.

Stars can be collected from The Cemetery Lodge, 87 Prestbury Road, Macclesfeld or from Macclesfield Town Hall.