AN EVENT to remember the loved ones who have passed away has been organised by the charity No One Dies Alone.

The Absent Friends Festival will take place on Thursday, November 4 at 7pm in the WG13 in Kilmarnock.

It will be a celebration of the lives of those people from all over Ayrshire who have been supported by the charity.

No One Dies Alone, commonly known as the midwives of mercy, help people through the last months, weeks, days and hours of their lives, and offer patients’ families and friends support too.

Now, they are looking for people to come forward with stories of their loved ones to be told on the night.

Chairperson Linda McCurrach, who wants more people in the community to talk about death to change the perception of it, said: “We have received a grant from the Absent Friends Festival and will be providing a light buffet.

“Provost Barry Douglas will be coming along, hopefully along with some other local dignitaries.

“We are looking for stories that are between five and 10 minutes long and they can be about anything related to celebrating the life of an absent friend, a story with them or a story of your loss, they can be funny, sad or thought provoking.”

No One Dies Alone offers people who are facing end of life, face to face support; some holistic therapy treatments including Reiki and Therapeutic Touch and befriending.

Recently, they attended a festival in Govan and had the chance to talk to First Minister Nicola Sturgeon about their work in the community. Places for the festival event on November 4 can be reserved by calling 07858 151969.

Readers who wish to get involved by becoming a volunteer companion can email the team at noonediesaloneayrshire@gmail.com.