Pendleside Hospice Light Up A Life raises £97,591: PHOTOS

One of the charity’s biggest fund-raising campaigns, it offers people the opportunity to remember the life of a loved one by dedicating a coloured light to their memory.

Mayor of Burnley Coun. David Heginbotham had the honour of switching on the lights at the service, which was led by spiritual care co-ordinator Chris Cheeseman.

Hospice chairman Mr David Brown briefly spoke beforehand though and revealed the event had already raised a staggering £97,591.

“This is a very special event,” he said. “It gives us time to pause and remember loved ones and it also gives the hospice a chance to say ‘thank you’ for all your loyalty and support.”

Hymns including “O Come All Ye Faithful” and “Silent Night” were sung by those in attendance, accompanied by Burnley Silver Alliance Band while teenage songstress Grace O’Malley leant her incredible voice to proceedings, singing beautiful renditions of “O Holy Night” and “Have Yourself A Merry Little Christmas.”

The service finished with piper Steve Sumner playing “Abide By Me”.

Anybody wishing to fill in a Light Up A Life form can do so by visiting www.pendleside.org.uk. or ring 440100.