THOUSANDS of people got together to remember their loved ones at Light up a Life ceremonies held across East Lancashire.

The services give those who have lost family members and friends the chance to light a candle in their memory and make a donation.

Pendleside Hospice held its service yesterday with Rossendale Hospice's event taking place last week.

Yesterday, seasonal carols were sung while soprano Grace O'Malley and the Basics Junior Theatre Group performed.

The Light up a Life appeal raises thousands of pounds for the Reedley-based hospice.

James Reilly, 40, had come with his daughter Maddison, 11, who sings in the choir.

He said: "I'm here to remember my gran.

"I bring Maddison every year.

"We used to get together with my gran every year at Christmas time and now she is no longer here. It's poignant at this time of year."

Andrew Stephenson, Pendle MP, said: "I think this is a wonderful event where the community come together to remember loved ones we have lost.

"And Pendle Hospice is doing some incredible work for the community all year round."

Janet Pearson, 70, said: "I'm here for my mum, dad and husband and a friend Gill Wilkinson who died last year."

The lights were switched on by Burnley Mayor Cllr Jeff Sumner.

Matthew O'Donnell, 37, had come with family members to remember his mum Susan Carole O'Donnell who died in 2014.

Nearly 500 people also attended the Rossendale Hospice's Light up a Life service held at St Mary's Church in Rawtenstall.

During the time of reflection music was played and candles were lit while more than 700 people were remembered as their names appeared on a screen at the front of the church.

Valerie Hollowood, who has attended the service for many years, said: "Life is always busy but at this time of year it is nice to remember my parents and Aunty Betty.

"The service is so welcoming, listening to children singing is heart-warming and it is so nice to see the event so well supported."

Opera star Sean Ruane and St Mary's CE Primary School's choir sang This little light of mine and In the bleak mid-winter and there was also a performance from the 2nd Rossendale Scout Band.

This year the event raised £12,409 which will help fund the many services the hospice provides.