LIGHTS shone bright in memory of loved ones.

Hundreds gathered at Bolton Hospice for the annual Light up a Life service to remember and celebrate the lives of those who will not be sharing the festive season with them this year at a moving service,

Many of the 200 people who attended were families of those who were cared for by the hospice before they died.

Mark Cassidy, fundraiser at Bolton Hospice said: “The service was very poignant and moving.

“Many of the people who attend have a link to the hospice, and it’s a lovely way for families to remember someone special who is missed at Christmas.”

Those who donate to the appeal receive a commemorative card dedicated to a loved on and their names is added to the Book of Remembrance at the hospice.

John Hall, Bereavement and Spiritual Care Lead at Bolton Hospice, said:”It was wonderful to see so many families attend our Light up a Life service at the hospice.

“Christmas is a special time when we look forward to celebrating with family and friends, but also a time when we feel the loss of those who are no longer with us.

“Memories of past Christmases spent with loved ones are with you at this time of year, and families want to spend time remembering those special people who are in their heart. The Light up a Life service is a way to remember and celebrate the lives of those who won’t be here to share Christmas with us this year, but who remain with us in our thoughts and memories.

“ It was my honour and privilege to lead the Light up a Life services this December, thank you to everyone who attended and helped out on these memorable evenings.”

A Light up a Life service was also held at Bolton Parish Church last week, where there were special readings and music by Bolton Senior Brass Group and songs by St Peter and St Paul’s RC School and Our Lady of Lourdes R.C Primary School choirs

Those who were unable to attend the Light up a Life service can still dedicate a light to a love one this Christmas by visiting the virtual night sky, which is on the hospice website.

Visit http://lightupalife.boltonhospice.org.uk/ to dedicate a star to a loved one in the night sky.