For they stripped more than 100 lights from a Christmas tree memorial to victims of terminal illnesses.

The North Carolina pine in front of City Hall was put up last month by volunteers of Agape House -- the hospice for the terminally ill.

Each of the white lights memorialised an Agape House patient, including those who had died from AIDS.

A little plaque by the 16-foot tree carries the words "Light Up A life''.

"I am so saddened by what has happened,'' said Agape House co-ordinator Mrs.

Hilary Soares yesterday.

"I don't think those who took the lights actually thought about what they symbolised.'' Said Corporation of Hamilton secretary Mr. Roger Sherratt: "It is very disturbing to think that somebody would be so mean-spirited.'' He said the theft took place over the weekend.

"All the lights went from the tree, most were stolen, although some were smashed. We even found lights in the pond.'' Mr. Sherratt said lights had been stolen in little batches over the last few weeks, but this time thieves had completely stripped the tree.

Asked about security, he replied: "Quite honestly, we never thought we would have to provide it for a Christmas tree.'' Mr. Sherratt said stolen lights had now been replaced.

He added: "We ask for people to view this as a community tree and take care of it and respect it.

"People who see anybody doing anything foolish should let somebody know immediately.'' Mr. Sherratt said the Corporation had warmly welcomed the idea of such a tree.

And there were plans to put another tree up again next year -- although this time with special lights.

"These lights won't be of use to anybody,'' he said.

Director of Volunteers at Agape House, Mrs. Terry Pearman-Castle, said co-ordinators of the "Light A Life'' project were Mrs. Karen North and Mrs.

Ann Marie Loftus.

"We very much appreciate the tireless efforts of the people who organised this project -- the volunteers of Agape House and those who have supported us in the community.''