THE annual Tree Of Light campaign is set to return to the city for its 11th year - but this time its sparkly lights are set to twinkle in three separate locations in Southampton.

Since the campaign was first launched by loneliness support charity Communicare in 2009, residents have commemorated loved ones around a lit-up tree at Woolston Millennium Garden every year during the run up to the festive season.

And this year will see trees come to life with sponsored lights at Woolston Millenium Garden, The Mayor's Parlour, and St Mark's Church on Archers Road.

Communicare - who recruit volunteers to provide practical and emotional support to those experiencing loneliness - are asking people to sponsor a light at one or more of the switch-on events in memory of loved ones who are no longer here.

The charity aims to use the money raised to continue their work across the city, with each sponsored light costing a suggested minimum donation of £7.

The tree light switch-on takes place at St Mark's Church at 5.30pm on Sunday December 1, The Mayor's Parlour at 6pm on Wednesday December 4 and Woolston Millennium Garden at 4.30pm on Saturday December 7.

Mayor of Southampton and Councillor Peter Baillie will be switching the lights on at the Woolston event, and carols will be sung by Rising Stars Choir.

Annie Clewlow, the manager of Communicare, said: "The reason why we have grown to three trees is because some people couldn't get access to the Woolson tree or be at the switch-on, and they had asked for a tree to be nearer to them.

"The first important thing is that it is a service to the public, and it's lovely for people to remember to include those who are no longer with us in their Christmas celebrations. It is welcomed by everyone.

"The second important thing is the sponsorship of the lights, as they are a significant part of fundraising. It helps us to provide our services across Southampton to help to reduce isolation and loneliness, and to provide practical and emotional support."

To donate, visit https://www.facebook.com/donate/389381855318842/ or sponsor a light at https://communicareinsouthampton.org.uk/tree-of-light-2019/.