People across the Bradford district can pay tribute to their loved ones over the festive period and help raise money for the Lord’s Mayor’s Appeal.

The eighth annual Christmas Star Appeal will support Lord Mayor Councillor Naveeda Ikram’s chosen charity, Marie Curie Cancer Care, which promotes quality of life for people with cancer and other illnesses at its hospice in Maudsley Street.

Stars will be displayed on a Christmas tree in the Banqueting Suite at Bradford’s City Hall.

Coun Ikram dedicated the first star of the appeal to community stalwart Raja Mohammed Aslam, of Little Horton, who left a lasting impression on her.

Mr Aslam, who died earlier this year aged 80, organised fundraising stalls near his home in Hastings Place to raise money for victims of the Pakistan floods.

Coun Ikram said: “It was overwhelming to see him in full spirits and fully dedicated to the cause of raising money. He was full of ideas and, as a team, we did amazingly well by raising loads of money for the charity. He was a truly helpful, caring and genuine person who would always support good causes and the community.”

People who have donated a star will be invited to City Hall on Tuesday, December 6, for coffee and mince pies with the Lord Mayor. Nominations should be sent on the form in today's Telegraph & Argus with a cheque for £5 or more by Thursday, November 24.