LANDMARK Hereford buildings are being lit up in orange this week to mark a national campaign.

The Cathedral, the Green Dragon Hotel, the Courtyard theatre, Hereford County Hospital, the Town Hall and the Shell Store joined landmarks across the country to be lit up for National Grief Awareness Week 2024, which runs from December 2 to 8.

In Hereford, the buildings are lit up on Wednesday to coincide with Christmas late night shopping.

This year’s campaign is about highlighting the work of the people, places and projects that provide outstanding bereavement services, and to raise awareness of the support available.

Local grief specialist, Dawn Ford has organised Hereford’s participation.

“National Grief Awareness Week is a time to acknowledge people who are grieving," she said. 

"Loss is not spoken about enough, making grief very isolating for people. The simple act of lighting up a building can create a sense of community and open up vital conversations about the feelings of grief."

As part of the Light Up in Orange everyone is welcome to a meeting at 6pm on Wednesday, December 4, at Hereford Cathedral’s West Gate, for quiet candle-lit reflection. Everyone is also welcome to join Dawn Ford afterwards at the Green Dragon’s Garrick Lounge where hot chocolate and mulled wines and mince pies can be purchased and for that very important emotional compassion and connection.