Pendleside Hospice to hold virtual Light Up A Life event

Around 1,000 people gather each Christmas outside the hospice’s main entrance to remember loved ones who have died.

During the service, which usually raises in the region of £100,000, the hospice’s decorative Christmas lights are switched on heralding the start of the festive season.

This year Pendleside intends to carry on the tradition despite Covid restrictions by staging a virtual Light Up A Life service airing on social media platforms Facebook, YouTube and the hospice’s website, on Sunday, December 20th, starting at 3-30pm.

There will still be the same kind of entertainment as in previous years when opera singer Grace O’Malley, Pendleside Choir and Basics Youth Theatre have all performed.

David Brown, chairman of the trustees, said: “The last 12 months have brought many challenges and changes to normal life. For many of us, these strange times have highlighted the importance of family, friends and loved ones more than ever before.

“And Light Up A Life is a wonderful opportunity for families to remember those who have passed away.”

In addition to the virtual service Pendleside is selling Light Up A Life Boxes, that include an order of service, tea light, remembrance stars, pen and refreshments, which will enable people to feel part of the service while at home.

These are available from the hospice reception, and the website at a cost of £5, plus £3 postage and packaging.

Lisa Pearson, head of income generation, said: “People have previously remembered their loved ones by dedicating a light in their memory. If you wish to remember your loved ones in this way again please make your donation online by going to www.pendleside.org.uk and click on the Light Up A Life tab.

“Anyone is welcome to dedicate a light; not just those who have lost someone at the hospice or those whose loved ones have suffered from cancer.

"It is a lovely way to remember someone and to come together (albeit virtually this year) with others who have lost someone too.

“Your support of Pendleside will help more families in our community which means your family, friends and neighbours will continue to receive care when needed.”

Light Up A Life is sponsored by Alderson and Horan, Funeral Directors, of Burnley.