THOUSANDS of lights were lit as families remembered those who will not be with their loved ones this Christmas at Pendleside Hospice’s Light up a Life afternoon.

The service in the hospice grounds featured seasonal readings and carols, as well as performances from teenage soprano Grace O’Malley and Basics Junior Theatre School.

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There was also opportunity for quiet reflection.

Kaye Bartle, hospice fundraising manager, said each of the lights represented the love and memories in the hearts for those who can no-longer celebrate with their loved ones because they have passed on.

She said: “Light up a Life is an opportunity for us all to take time out of that very busy run up to Christmas and think of those who aren’t around to celebrate with us this year.

“Christmas, whilst a time for rejoicing, celebrating and spending time with family and loved ones can be especially painful if this is the first year that that special person who lit up your life is not around to celebrate Christmas with you.

“All the celebrations going on around us can intensify that feeling of loss and sadness and we hope that our Light up a Life service will offer people the opportunity to remember loved ones in a positive way.”

Lights on a Christmas tree outside the hospice’s main reception, which was donated again this year by Alderson and Horan Funeral Service, were lit for the first time by the mayor of Burnley, Coun Andy Tatchell.

To dedicate a light to a loved one, visit pendleside.org.uk or call the fundraising department on 01282 440120.

Anyone making a dedication will receive a Light up a Life card and a voucher redeemable for a Light up a Life pin badge or hanging Christmas tree decoration.

After Christmas the name of everyone remembered is entered into a book of remembrance.

This is then kept on display at the hospice through the year and is available for viewing at other times of year such as birthdays or anniversaries.