TODAY is the launch of this year's Christmas Star Appeal – with the district’s Lord Mayor dedicating the first star to a beloved family member who is forever in her heart.

Each year, people can dedicate gold stars in memory of family or friends which are then placed on the Christmas tree at City Hall in Bradford.

This year is the 21st year of the appeal, which is organised in partnership with the Telegraph & Argus.

The Lord Mayor of Bradford, Councillor Beverley Mullaney, launched this year's appeal by dedicating a tribute to her sister Lindsey Meakin.

Cllr Mullaney said: "I have chosen my darling sister who is forever in our hearts: she was loving, daughter, sister, wife, mother, grandmother and friend, as well as a great colleague to many.

"She has left a large void in the lives of everyone whom she touched. We will love and miss her forever."

The Christmas Star appeal has been supported by the T&A for the 21 years since it inception.

All you have to do is fill in the coupon on this page before the closing date of Monday, December 2.

The coupon The coupon for the Christmas Star Appeal (Image: T&A) You will then be invited to the Banqueting Suite at City Hall on Wednesday, December 4, for a tea or coffee and a mince pie with the Lord Mayor and to see your Christmas star on the City Hall Christmas tree.

The event has been sponsored by generous local businesses and individuals, such as The Smart Printing Company, which has provided the stars and invitations free of charge.

A selection of Chrsitmas Stars on the City Hall tree during a previous appealA selection of Chrsitmas Stars on the City Hall tree during a previous appeal The Lord Mayor is also very grateful for the support of the Fairfax Singers who provide the musical entertainment on the evening, Gareth Logan who has generously supplied all the refreshments, the wonderful volunteers from her Appeal committee and Noel Waterhouse and his young people from the Bradford Sea Cadets.

All the funds raised from this event will support The Lord Mayor’s “Ambition Academy” Appeal. The aim of this appeal is to provide financial support to launch careers in music, drama, sports and the arts. The Lord Mayor hopes her new project will ensure children and young adults can ‘fly high’ and fulfil their aspirations.

The Christmas Star Appeal has always been warmly supported by the people of Bradford, who value the chance to pay tribute to a loved one at this special time of the year and who welcome the opportunity to come together at City Hall and share an evening celebrating the special people in their lives.