Light up a life

FUND-raisers at a Rotherham charity are gathering candles ready for this year’s poignant Light Up A Life service.

Rotherham Hospice’s annual event, which last year attracted around 800 people, gives family members and friends the chance to come together to celebrate and remember their loved ones.

This year the ceremony, at 4pm on Sunday, December 6, moves to Talbot Lane Methodist Church.

A hospice spokeswoman said: “The festive season is a time for celebration, families and personal reflection.

“The Light Up A Life ceremony is a beautiful and sensitive service with readings and songs which bring us together remembering our loved ones.

“A light is a symbolic way of remembering a loved one and we use this symbol to provide a focus by inviting people to the ceremony and recording the names of their loved ones in the Book of Memories.”

Places are limited so supporters are asked to return an application form to the hospice as soon as possible.

The application form can also be used to pledge a donation and record a name in the Book of Memories which will be available to view at the hospice throughout December and January.

A spokeswoman added: “Your support enables our vital work to be available to the families of Rotherham.

“Whatever your reason for dedicating a light your donation will bring support and hope to patients and their families in need of the hospice over the coming year.”

Last year, for the first time, the Lights of Love event was moved from the hospice grounds to Magna.

The decision was taken following 2007’s blustery conditions and an increase in the number of supporters at the event.

q For information about the hospice, events information or to volunteer your time, contact the team on 01709 308917.