Ormskirk West End Primary School and Portico Nursery at West End will open their doors on Monday 17th December to remember a loved one this Christmas.

The day was inspired by a parent at the school who approached school to ask if there was anything they could to do to help people during the festive season, as it can be a very difficult time for many who have lost someone.

She had met a lady who was dreading her first Christmas without her husband; they were never fortunate enough to have children and weren’t religious but she was worried he would be forgotten.

For most this is a happy time of the year but for so many it can be really sad and lonely, so Ormskirk West End decided that net Monday it'll open its doors from 1.30pm-7.30pm for members of the community to be welcomed into their assembly hall to place a Christmas bauble on the memory tree for their loved one.

They can write a message on this or simply just write a name on it. Baubles will be provided for free so there is no need for anybody to bring their own.

The tree will be surrounded by children, staff, governors and parents over the festive period while school is open. Visitors will be offered a hot drink and can sit for a while and chat or just pop in. The children from school and Portico nursery will be visiting the tree at various times throughout the last week of term, they will be reading poems, singing, dancing or simply just spending time in the hall giving thanks and remembering how fortunate they are.

Phil Clarke, Headteacher at the school, explained: “As a community school we always offer a warm welcome. With so many performances, parties and celebrations happening during this very busy time in our school term, it’s absolutely right that we take the time to think of others.”

Amanda Wiley, Manager of the Portico at West End Nursery, added: “We take the mental welfare of our children and staff very seriously. Children are magical, the innocence and quirky things they do that make us laugh. They are the future, it is important they enjoy life, love learning and be respectful of others. We are delighted to be a part of such a wonderful gesture to our community and we look forward to visiting the tree every day and filling the room with warmth and love.”

The bar will be around by kids, employers, governors and helpers over the festive season though the school is open. Guests will be given a hot drink and can sit for a while and chat or import. I got to know about top essay writing soon. Children from school and the Portico nurse clinic will visit the tree several times throughout the past week, and will read poetry, music, dancing or simply just spend time in a grateful and memorable courtyard. though they are lucky.