A HOSPICE has launched its annual Light up a Life appeal, to allow bereaved families to remember loved ones lost in the past year.

Durham City’s St Cuthbert’s Hospice is inviting people to remember a friend or relative who has passed away by making a donation to the charity in their name.

In return, the deceased person’s name will be included in special Books of Remembrance, which will be dedicated at a Light up a Life service in Durham Cathedral.

This year’s service will be held at the culmination of the appeal, on Sunday, December 12, at 6.30pm. The event is open to all and will include selected readings and music, with accompaniment from the Durham Miners’ Association Brass Band.

Angela Dinsdale, chief executive of St Cuthbert’s Hospice, said: "Last year, Light up a Life raised over £11,000 which helped us to improve the quality of life and preserve the dignity of people with life-limiting illnesses in north Durham.

"In the coming weeks, we hope that our local community will once again join us for this special celebration of life and help to raise vital funds towards our free care services."

National charity Help the Hospices estimates around 78,000 people in the North-East are facing their first Christmas without someone they were close to this year.

Jen Willcock, family support co-ordinator at St Cuthbert’s Hospice, said: "Winter can be a poignant time for those of us who are missing someone and it is important for local people to know that they are not alone.

"Whether you have a connection to St Cuthbert’s Hospice or not, our Light up a Life appeal is here to help our community to celebrate fond memories and remember a loved one as winter draws near."

Veteran broadcaster Michael Parkinson, who is backing the national Light up a Life campaign, said: "At a time when people come together, winter can be very difficult for those who have lost someone.

"Looking back and reflecting on the good times spent with a loved one is a positive way to bring them closer to us."

St Cuthbert’s Hospice provides free care for people with life limiting illnesses in north Durham. It has day and in-patient units.

For more information, call 0191-3861170.