On Sunday 8 December, from 3.30pm-4.15pm, Co-op Funeralcare Nile Steet, located in Burslem, along with the H Goodwin, Salt and Son, Marsh and Son, and John Johnson branches, will be hosting a Christmas memorial service at The Old Chapel, on Etruria Old Road. 

The service, which will be led by local celebrant Kate Moran, will include a Christmas poetry reading, carol singing, and an opportunity for guests to reflect in candlelight, as well as write a message to loved ones to hang on the memorial tree.  

Local vocalist, Melodie Forrester, will also sing 'O Holy Night'. Refreshments will be available following the service – including tea, coffee, and mince pies – and team members from each home will be on hand for a friendly chat. 

Robert Connell, Funeral Service Manager for North Staffordshire Co-op Funeralcare, said: "We're delighted to invite the community to our Christmas memorial service. It's a great opportunity to create a special space for reflection, remembrance, and healing, while honouring loved ones who have sadly died. 

"We hope to bring comfort to those grieving this festive season – a time that often emphasises family and togetherness. For many, this Christmas might be the first without a loved one, so whether it's a chat over a minced pie and cup of tea with one of the funeralcare team or lighting a candle as a mark of remembrance – we hope to make a difference to those grieving this Christmas.  

"We look forward to seeing both new and old faces at the service, and on behalf of us all at Co-op Funeralcare, I wish everyone a very happy Christmas."