FRIENDS and relatives of loved ones congregated inside a church for a reflective service to remember those who are no longer with us.

More than 100 people gathered inside Cartmel Priory yesterday for a special Light Up A Life service which was led by Reverend Nick Devendish.

A variety of festive hymns were sung by adults and schoolchildren alike as bereaved families came together to share their grief and to celebrate the lives of loved ones who have passed away.

The service was organised by Ulverston-based St Mary's Hospice, which for the last 16 years has given people the chance to dedicate a light on the St Mary's Tree in memory of someone special.

A similar service was held at St Mary's RC Church in Ulverston on Sunday December 4.

Val Stangoe, chief executive of the hospice, said: "It's lovely for people to come along and remember in the company of others who understand what they're going through.

"Christmas is always a difficult time of the year. When you have lost someone you don't just forget about them but I hope that by coming here it reminds people that they're not alone. It's not nice and it is painful but it is part of real life and things do get easier."

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