A FIELD of sunflowers have been created as poignant symbols of remembrance.

On Sunday, St. Michael’s Hospice supporters were invited to create a field of sunflowers in the charity's garden to celebrate happy memories shared with their loved ones.

Families attended the annual Sunflower Celebration event in the gardens of the hospice, which began with a blessing led by St Michael’s Hospice chaplain, Reverend Tom Honey.

The service continued with a rendition of Carrickfergus from Ooh Mama Ladies Choir and a reading from St Michael’s Hospice vice patron Barry Smith.

Following the service afternoon tea was served and all guests were welcomed to collect their sunflower bearing the name of their loved one to take home and keep as a personal memento.

Laura Holmes, events manager at St Michael’s Hospice said, “We are so grateful to all the families who joined us to remember their loved ones at this special event.

"The dedications made as part of our sunflower appeal will help us to continue to provide our specialist care to patients and their families facing life limiting illness in North Hampshire.

"It is hoped that the Sunflower Appeal will raise more than £16,000 for our hospice.”