HOSPITAL visitors are being invited to remember a loved one on the Tree of Lights while raising vital funds.

Organised by the Boscombe and Southbourne Rotary Club, the annual Tree of Lights will be based at the Royal Bournemouth Hospital from Monday, November 30.

Visitors can buy a light for a minimum £5 donation in memory of a loved one, with their name recorded in a book of remembrance displayed in the hospital chapel.

The lights will be switched on by Mayor of Bournemouth John Adams on Thursday, December 17, at 6.30pm, followed by a carol service in the hospital’s Oasis café.

Philip Johanson of the Boscombe and Southbourne Rotary Club said: "The Tree of Lights is an ideal opportunity both to especially remember a loved one at this time of the year, and at the same time support local projects."

A team of rotarians and hospital volunteers will be on hand in the hospital's main atrium every day between 1.30-3.30pm and 6.30-8.30pm to sell the lights.

All proceeds will be split between the Bournemouth Hospital Charity and a selection of other charities chosen by the Boscombe and Southbourne Rotary Club.

The hospital charity is currently raising funds for its Orchard Garden Project, which aims to provide a peaceful garden area next to the new Jigsaw Building for patients from the cancer and women's health units.

This year the carol service will be accompanied by the Boscombe Salvation Army Band, with mulled wine and mince pies, and the drawing of the charity's Grand Christmas Raffle.

For more information about Bournemouth Hospital Charity or the event call 01202 704060 or email charity@rbch.nhs.uk.