A SPECIAL tree will be lit in Musselburgh this Christmas in memory of babies who have passed away.

Simpsons Special Care Babies (SSCB), the official charity supporting the neonatal unit at the Royal Infirmary of Edinburgh, has joined forces with the team at Newhailes House to create a Tree of Light.

The initiative, which will be launched on Friday, November 24, is to enable people to remember “those precious babies who brought so much joy but spent so little time with us”.

A spokesperson for the charity highlighted that Christmas could result in “a mix of emotions” for people, particularly for families and friends who had experienced the loss of a baby.

They said: “We want to shine a light on them and provide a safe space where you can remember them this Christmas.

“We can think of nowhere better to house our tree than in the wonderful grounds of Newhailes House, where you can grab a coffee, take a walk or let siblings play in Weehailes playpark whilst taking a moment to remember a loved one.”

One in eight babies require the support of the neonatal unit and funds raised have allowed the purchase of state-of-the-art equipment, advanced neonatal training for staff, and ongoing care for families who find themselves in the unit.

Now people are able to purchase a bauble to be dedicated in memory of someone special.

The spokesperson added: “If you have experienced the loss of a baby, or know someone who has, you can donate and add their name to one of our specially designed SSCB baubles.

“These baubles will be added to our Tree of Light, which will be displayed with pride in the courtyard of Newhailes House from November 24 until the first week in January, with all funds raised going directly to SSCB.”

For more information or to purchase a bauble, go to sscb.org