Hundreds of lights lit up to remember loved ones this Christmas.

Bolton Hospice held its Light up a Life service.

It is the first service where people have been able to come together side by side and join other families, following the pandemic.

Two moving services were held with one taking place at Bolton Hospice, and the other taking place at Bolton Parish Church.

The Bolton News: Picture by Henry Lisowski at Bolton Hospice Light up a Life servicePicture by Henry Lisowski at Bolton Hospice Light up a Life service (Image: Henry Lisowski)

The service has been going since 2017 and is held for people to remember people they have lost over the festive period, which can often be a really difficult time for many.

This year saw a brass band also pay tribute to those close to people’s hearts at the parish church.

Courtney Finch, Fundraiser at Bolton Hospice said, “Thank you so much to everyone who attended the Light up a Life service at Bolton Parish Church.

“It was so lovely to be able to come together to remember our loved ones and dedicate a light to them this festive season.

“The Light up a Life appeal raises vital funds for Bolton Hospice every year and your kind support is already enabling the hospice to care for more families when they need us most – thank you.”

Church warden, Cllr John Walsh said: “It was wonderful that we were back in church having that service, having had virtual services for a few years.

“It was very cold, but the attendance was good.

“It was a very moving service.”

Plenty of refreshments, as well as Christmas cards were also offered, with the proceeds going towards the hospice.

Prayers were also read out by Revd Canon Dr Chris Bracegirdle and Revd Ian Hepburn as well as hymns sung by school children at Kearsley West Primary and Nursery School, Little Lever School, and Mytham Primary School.

The Bolton News: Picture by Henry LisowskiPicture by Henry Lisowski (Image: Henry Lisowski)

Cllr Walsh added: “Both schools performed wonderfully, and it really was very moving.

“It was a fitting tribute to all those who are remembered on such occasion.”

The main lights were turned off during the service at the church to allow smaller lights to shine and light up the church.

Families also shared their heartbreak and memories of loved ones with personal dedication messages.

People taking part in the appeal in the past have written personal dedication messages with an image in memory of someone who has died.

You can make a donation to the appeal by visiting www.boltonhospice.org.uk/LUAL or contact the fundraising department on 01204 663 065.

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