Bereaved parents lit candles in memory of their children at a moving service at Bradford Cathedral.

The service on Saturday, now in its 15th year, is organised by the Bradford Bereaved Parents Group, which also runs self-help meetings and offers one-to-one support for families.

It was led by the vicar of Holme Wood, the Reverend Canon Gordon Dey, and included readings from bereaved parents and Coroner Roger Whittaker.

A woman who lost her daughter to leukaemia five years ago, spoke to the gathered parents about her experience.

She said: “I have discovered, from reading and talking to other people, how strong the human spirit is.

“The worst possible thing has happened to all of us here today, the loss of an irreplaceable child, and yet we are still standing.”

Speaking after the service, group member Kathy Kenure said: “There are some people who, just once a year, find it is nice to come together with other people they feel comfortable with, and can cry if they want to.

“Most of the time bereaved parents feel misunderstood, that no-one realises how difficult it is and they can’t always be open and honest about how they are feeling. To be with people suffering like they are, at least hopefully, gives them a bit of comfort.”

Ita Telemaque, who has attended every service held by the group, lost her son Eddie in an accident with a bus when he was 16.

Months later her 18-year-old daughter Carrie choked to death.

She said her children, although they died more than 30 years ago, will never be forgotten.

“The pain is always there but it is good to share it with other people who feel the same way,” she said.

“It is good to know you are not alone and there are places you can turn to for help.”

The group was set up by Dr Norma Towler, a former community health doctor, and retired Provost of Bradford, Brandon Jackson, with help from others.

For more information about Bradford Bereaved Parents Group, contact Ros on (01274) 735155.