More than a thousand personal dedications have been made in memory of loved ones as part of a Harrogate charity’s annual Christmas remembrance campaign.
Sunday marked the second of Saint Michael’s Light up a Life events, where the community gathered in the spectacular hospice grounds to see the lights on the Christmas tree illuminated, each symbolising the life of someone special.
With music from St Aidan’s choir and Tewit Youth Band, as well as readings and songs, the meaningful service offered local people the chance to celebrate the lives of loved ones.
The lights were switched on by Saint Michael’s day therapy nurse Jean Hall, who is retiring after 26 years with the charity. For the first ever year, a twinkling lantern garden offered people the opportunity to take home a keepsake in return for a donation towards the work of Saint Michael’s.
Chief Executive of Saint Michael’s, Tony Collins, said: Thank you to everyone who has chosen Light up a Life as a special part of their Christmas tradition, remembering those who are no longer with us, but whose memory continues to illuminate our lives each day.
Once again, the sheer number of people present across both of our remembrance services affirms the community ownership of Light up a Life. Saint Michael’s, too, is much more than a service provided for local people – it is about many services shaped, owned and supported by the community.
All donations made as part of Light up a Life help the charity to support more local families living with terminal illness this Christmas.
The lights will remain illuminated throughout the festive season, and there is still time to make a dedication, either online at www.saintmichaelshospice or by calling (01423) 878 628.
