An annual Christmas memorial service will be held in South Lanarkshire Crematorium at the start of next month. 

The December 3 event has become special for locals, as it creates an opportunity for the bereaved to come together as the festive season approaches and remember those they have lost. 

Councillor Robert Brown, chair of the council’s community and enterprise resources committee, said: “This event provides a special way to remember at a time of year when our losses are often felt the most.

“Whether your loved one has been buried or cremated, our service sets out to make remembrance special, creating a time for quiet reflection in a season where there is so much going on around us. 

“We extend a warm invitation to anyone who could benefit from visiting the crematorium in what is a dignified, peaceful, and personal space to honour and remember. The team there will be on hand to offer any support if needed.” 

The service will begin at 2pm and the crematorium will remain open until 4pm for anyone who wants to attend to light a candle or to place a message on the Christmas tree. 

Father Martin Delaney of St Joseph’s and St John Ogilvie RC Churches and Rev Murdo Macdonald of St Andrew’s and Livingstone Memorial Churches will lead this year’s event.