HUNDREDS of people braved sub-zero temperatures to remember loved ones lost to cancer in a light switch at Pendleside Hospice, Reedley.

Now in its 10th year, the Light Up A Life service gives relatives the chance to sponsor coloured lights at the hospice.

Around 8,000 lives were remembered at the services held over the weekend and it is hoped a record £100,000 will be raised from the event.

The Mayor of Burnley, Coun John Harbour, switched on the lights on Saturday and the Mayor of Brierfield, Coun Michael Sutcliff, switched them on yesterday.

An address was given by the hospice spiritual care co-ordinator John Price and carols were played by the Burnley Alliance Silver Band and the Salvation Army Band.

Julie Ridehalgh, 50, and her mother Myra Entwistle, 77, both from Burnley, attended the service to remember Myra’s husband and Julie’s father, Frank Entwistle, who died of cancer in June 2006.

Julie said: “My dad died in the hospice and we have attended the service every year since.

"We find it a good way of paying our respects. The hospice was fantastic with him and we try to support it in any way we can.”

Hospice fundraising manager Kaye Bartle said: “Christmas can be difficult for those who have lost someone close, particularly if this is their first year without them.

“Light Up A Life is an opportunity to remember them in a positive way.”

Everyone who sponsored a light received a decorative card and a voucher for a special Light Up A Life pin badge or Christmas tree hanging decoration.