LOVED ones gone but not forgotten were commemorated at Bolton Hospice's annual Light up a Life appeal.

More than 200 people attended the service on Wednesday evening to support the appeal, which invites people from across Bolton to dedicate a light on one of the commemorative trees at the hospice and grounds of the Parish Church.

The service was one of remembrance and celebration at a time of year that can be difficult for people who have lost those closest to them. The lights were lit to represent the memory of a special person who is no longer .

As well as dedications from family members, staff and volunteers also put up a light to represent each person who attended the hospice during a 12 month period, from September 2013 to September 2014, and invited their family members to pay their respects.

Catering for those of any faith or none, Monica Ballani began the prayers with the dance called Satyam Shivam Sundram - Truth is God and God is beautiful. Bolton Interfaith Young Ambassadors then performed a song and Bolton Catholic Musical & Choral Society accompanied the carol singing.

The crowd then counted down to the lighting of the trees.

Rev Mark Brackley, chaplain at Bolton Hospice, led the service and said "In spite of the rain, the damp and the dark lights were lit and loved ones remembered, lifting our hearts at this wonderful but sometimes difficult time of year.

"It's brilliant to see so many people attend the service year by year. We can't control the weather but everyone is always welcome at these services."

More than 2,000 lights have been dedicated this year and will shine brightly over the Christmas period at the hospice and Parish Church.

Siobhan McGarel, events coordinator at Bolton Hospice said "This is a special appeal to so many and the services are always a lovely way to pause and reflect at a busy time of year.

"Thank you to everyone who has supported the appeal this year, together you have raised nearly £40,000 towards the compassionate care provided by Bolton Hospice."