Lights stolen from Hastings Christmas tree for bereaved families

The tree was erected in the Peace Garden in Alexandra Park on December 1 thanks to the Hastings and East Sussex SANDS, a stillbirth and neonatal charity, with support from Hastings Borough Council and councillor Phil Scott.

The charity was forced to cancel its usual Lights of Love service due to the Covid-19 pandemic so this year they invited families to come and add a decoration in memory of their babies.

However, some time between Sunday afternoon and Tuesday night, the lights on the tree were stolen.

Kate Richards, from the charity, said: "Luckily all the decorations that parents have placed are still there, but we are obviously very disappointed that the charity have had to pay for replacement lights."

The lights have since been replaced, at an expense to Hastings and East Sussex SANDS.

The charity added: "We feel that if people knew the tree was there for bereaved parents in memory of their babies then it would put off thieves stealing the replacement lights."

Shortly after the tree was erected, Jayne Gibbins-Robinson, a befriender for Hastings SANDS, said: “With Christmas looming, we know how hard this time of year can be for bereaved families. We are therefore inviting families to go and add a decoration of their choice to the tree and hopefully this will be a beautiful space for families to come and remember their babies who have gone too soon."

The charity is also offering anyone affected by the loss of a baby, a little gift which will include a tree decoration for families to write their baby's names on if they wish to place on the tree or on their own trees at home. Please get in touch via their Facebook page if you would like one.

The tree will be in place until new year 2021.