A Thanksgiving and Remembrance service will open its doors to all members of the community next year.

The service held in St Albans Cathedral will be held on May 7 next year, instead of its usual date in November.

Organised by Bereavement Matters, who offer emotional and practical support for the people of St Albans, members have changed date as 2017 will mark new beginnings and celebrate the organisation’s 15 anniversary.

Rt Revd John Gladwin, Chairman of Bereavement Matters said: “The service is open to everyone – all ages, cultures, faiths or none.

“Those who have experienced the service on previous occasions will know how moving and healing it can be.

"The service will begin with the release of doves at the West End of the Cathedral at 2.30 p.m. on May 7.”

A special Christmas fundraiser will take place next week, in efforts to raise money for Bereavement Matters.

The Red Door Experience in Beauty will take place in the Boots store in St Peter’s Street, St Albans from 7pm.

Tickets are £5 each and available to buy from Boots in St Albans, or the bereavement offices in Catherine Street.

For more information on the services, or if you would like to talk about the loss of a loved one, you can call the helpline number on 01727 841841 or visit the website.