THERE were very few dry eyes in a packed Barrow school hall as a local hospice held a remembrance service for families who have lost loved ones.
Hundreds of people came to Furness Academy last night to attend the Light Up a Life service organised by St Mary's Hospice.
The large auditorium in the school was lit up with dozens of small LED candles held by men, women and children – the light symbolising a loved one lost.
The night of remembrance featured beautiful music performed by soloist Faye Bowness, 17, who both sang and played the harp. Members of the Furness Academy Choir also performed, singing Let It Be , by The Beatles and the late Leonard Cohen's Hallelujah .
Val Stangoe, chief executive of the Ulverston hospice, was thrilled with the turnout on the night.
She said: "It's fantastic to see so many people here tonight. We've never seen something on this scale, it comes as a surprise.
"You often wonder if you do the right thing for people, and can see that the answer is yes."
There were readings during the service, and a Christmas tree was illuminated, each individual light a reminder of a family member who had died.
Olive Copson, a long-serving volunteer at the hospice who works in family support, reminded people the importance of celebrating the lives of loved ones.
She said: "I want you to remember two words – love and memories."
Simon Laheney, headteacher at the school said: "It's great to be able to support community events of any nature. We are a public service and we should help, and we will continue to do so."
Amy Dempster, marketing and events co-ordinator for the school, added: "St Mary's is such an icon in the community who support so many people."
There will be a final Light Up a Life service held at Cartmel Priory on Sunday, December 11 at 3.30pm. All are welcome to attend.
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