A LUNCH club is backing a Southampton annual Tree of Light Campaign set to illuminate trees across the city.

Members of St Mark’s Church Lunch Club pledged their support for the campaign run by Communicare, a charity aiming to help lonely and isolated people.

As part of the Daily Echo-backed campaign, anyone can sponsor a light on a remembrance tree in memory of a loved one or special cause.

There will be three remembrance trees across Southampton this year, which started with the illumination of the first tree at St Mark’s Church on Sunday, where the Haven lunch club runs.

The Haven lunch club, which runs on Fridays, was set up 13 years ago by volunteer Jenny Pike.

She said: “The Haven has been a beacon of hope in this community throughout the years. It seems really fitting that we should be linking with Communicare on this project, which is all about being a light in the area and supporting people with a little bit of understanding for the way they are missing those they have loved and lost at Christmas time.”

John Bayliss, 71, saw a piece in the Daily Echo asking for volunteers to help members travel to the club.

He takes three people to and from the Haven each week and said: “The guests are always cheerful, and we have fun and banter.”

Leslie John, 61, has helped to set up the lunch club for over three years.

He said: “It’s a great experience, gets me out of the house and is much better than sitting at home.”

Club member Margaret Cook, 83, said: “I wouldn’t be able to come without the kind Communicare drivers – they are all really helpful. Communicare also have a lovely summer fayre and Christmas tea parties. The drivers are very good, and all the staff at the Haven are so friendly."

Many of the Haven guests are onboard to sponsor a light on The Tree of Light.

The tree light switch-ons take place at The Mayor’s Parlour at 6pm on Wednesday December 4 and Woolston Millennium Garden at 4.30pm on Saturday December 7.

All proceeds raised will go towards funding the work of Communicare.

To donate, visit https://www.facebook.com/donate/389381855318842/.