BEREAVED families in Winsford are being given a chance to dedicate a hospice's fairy lights to the memory of loved ones they've lost. 

St Luke’s Light up a Life appeal will see fairy lights on its 25-foot Christmas tree dedicated at a special outdoor service on Sunday, December 1, at 4.30pm.

The service lasts around half-an-hour and includes readings, poems, and music, as well as some quiet time for personal reflection.

It is open to anyone who has lost a loved one, not just those who have been cared for by the hospice.

St Luke’s says Light up a Life is its most important annual event, helping raise vital funds to let them continue providing care and support to local people and their families.

St Luke’s director of care, Kate Estcourt, said: “It really is so moving to know every light that shines on our Christmas tree is dedicated in memory of a loved one, so many of who we were privileged to care for.

The lights on St Luke's 25-foot Christmas tree are all dedicated to memory of those missed by bereaved families The lights on St Luke's 25-foot Christmas tree are all dedicated to memory of those missed by bereaved families (Image: St Luke's Hospice) “Even though they are no longer with us, their memory still shines bright.

“There’s something so special about being able to come together as a community to remember those we’ve lost.

“We know Christmas can be difficult as we recall happy times spent with loved ones who are no longer with us, and we hope our Light up a Life service offers some comfort.”

Andrew Suckling’s wife, Nette, sadly died at St Luke’s Hospice last year aged 54, and he will be dedicating a light to her his Christmas for a second time.

St Luke's Nurses Rachel Norrey (left) and Vaughan Edge (right) with director of care, Kate EstcourtSt Luke's Nurses Rachel Norrey (left) and Vaughan Edge (right) with director of care, Kate Estcourt (Image: St Luke's Hospice) He’ll be attended the service with his and Nette’s children, Natalie, Niamh, Joseph, and Emily.

Andrew said: “It’s a lovely way to remember Nette. She had a huge heart, and she was the best mum ever. We miss her every day.

“It’s a really peaceful and lovely evening – from the nurses handing out candles, the choir, to the readings and carols.

“You’re sharing the service with the people who looked after your loved one and that’s very comforting.

“It’s very personal, and you can feel at ease with your grief because you are all there for the same purpose.”

This year’s appeal and service is supported by Birches Crematorium and Remembrance Park in Lach Dennis.  

For more information about this year’s ‘Light up a Life’ service and to dedicate a light in memory of a loved one, visit St Luke's website.