A HOSPICE is urging supporters to get behind its annual flagship fundraising appeal and remember family and friends in a poignant memorial ceremony.
Hundreds of twinkling lights, each representing lost loved ones, will be attached to a 25ft tree of remembrance during St Benedict Hospice’s Light Up A Life service.
The Ryhope hospice’s annual event sees hundreds of people every Christmas remember someone special by dedicating a light to them and making a donation to the hospice.
Last year’s event raised more than £26,000 and was attended by more than 600 people, including Dick and wife Linda Longstaff, who lost their daughter Charlotte, 37 at St Benedict’s
The Longstaffs will be attending this year’s event, which will take place in the grounds of the hospice on Sunday, December 6 at 4.30pm.
Catrina Flynn, fundraising manager at the hospice, said:
“Our memorial tree looks quite beautiful when it is all lit up and offers people the chance to remember their loved ones and support the work of their local hospice at the same time.
“It doesn’t have to be about people who have died at the hospice. It’s for anyone who wants to remember people who are no longer with us and we would encourage anyone who would like to dedicate a light to a loved one to get in touch.”
For more information contact the hospice on: 0191 512 8436 or email fundraising@stbenedicts.co.uk