AN ANNUAL event which offers people the opportunity to light a candle in memory of a loved one in a special service of remembrance went virtual.

Tynedale Hospice organises Light up a Life each year where people can honour a loved one, and had to think of alternative ways to hold it this year with the ongoing impact of Covid-19 on communities.

With sponsorship from Gibson & Co. Solicitors and the virtual event powered by Clockwork Dreams, the charity was able to offer a service accessible through its website and social media at the weekend.

Hundreds of people joined the service with supporters joining as far as Australia.

Filmed at St Mary’s Catholic Church in Hexham and Haltwhistle Methodist Church with Father Chris Warren and Reverend Alex Dunstan respectively, the service featured readings from people who had used the Hospice’s bereavement services.

Nathan Glassbrook became a Family Support Volunteer at the hospice after receiving bereavement support for both himself, and his two teenage daughters following the death of his wife, Avril, in 2017.

He said “I was honoured to take part in Light up a Life as I know first-hand how much it means to be able to take time out of our busy lives, particularly on the run up to Christmas, and reflect on the positive memories.

"The grief we feel never goes away but there is comfort coming together to celebrate and light a candle for our loved ones.”

Cathy Bates, senior fund-raiser, said “We have been overwhelmed with the feedback we’ve received from people who watched and took part in the virtual service. In a year where many people are already feeling isolated, it was more important than ever to ensure we provided a way for people to come together to remember their loved ones”.

The Light up a Life virtual service is available still available on the Hospice’s website: tynedalehospice.com/lual