FAMILIES gathered at a touching remembrance service in memory of loved ones who have passed away.

Last Sunday more than 200 people gathered to pay tributes to their loved ones at a service organised by St Mary's Hospice.

For the last 16 years the hospice have run its Light Up A Life campaign, bringing together bereaved families.

Attendees were given a small electronic candle to hold throughout the service, representing a family member they were remembering.

Melissa Dixon, community fundraiser for the hospice, said: "The whole Light Up A Life service has a special place in all our hearts. We have had some lovely feedback, especially about how wonderful all the performances were from Faye Bowness, UVHS Chamber Choir and St Mary’s Catholic Primary School.

"We were all grateful for their attendance and support – it definitely added something extra special to the service. Thank you to Canon Paul Embery for making us feel so welcome and hospice volunteer Olive Copson for her beautiful readings."

Helen Warrington, who attended the service, said: "I felt at the time and feel now that I am held in the palm of friends who care."

Sarah Simpson, marketing coordinator for St Mary's, said: "It means so much to the people who are thinking about their loved ones."

Miss Simpson also said the services were not just for people who have used the facilities at the hospice, but for anyone who has suffered a loss.

There will be another two Light Up A Life services held across the area this month.

The first will be held at Furness Academy, Barrow, on Wednesday December 7 at 6.30pm.

The second will be at Cartmel Priory, Cartmel, on Sunday December 11, at 3.30pm.

All are welcome to attend.

Read more about St Mary's Hospice:

A loving wife pays tribute to her husband after he passed away

Dozens of panting pooches came out to raise money for a local hospice