FAMILIES who have recently lost a loved one paid a moving tribute at a memorial service at the weekend.

Dozens of lights - each representing the life of someone who has passed away - were lit in a poignant ceremony at St Cuthbert's Hospice, in Durham City.

One by one, the twinkling lights hanging from a tree illuminated a darkened room and the names of loved ones were read from the Book Of Lights during a short service of remembrance.

Light up Life has become an annual event at the hospice, helping families come to terms with their bereavement at one of the most difficult times of the year.

The event began as a national fundraising campaign with families encouraged to dedicate a light hanging on a tree at Durham's railway station. However, in recent years the emphasis has changed more to helping families cope with their loss.