Shining a light on love and loss this Christmas

The loss of a loved one can feel particularly poignant at Christmas but a special service held annually by Weston Hospicecare aims to bring a little comfort and companionship to those affected at what can be a very difficult time of year.

The Light Up A Life event at St Paul's Church in Weston-super-Mare enables bereaved people, alongside other local families who have been through a similar experience, to light a lantern in memory of the person who has died and commemorate them in a book of remembrance

Weston Hospicecare's chaplain, Karen Murphy, says: "St Paul's looks beautiful, lit up with all the dedication lanterns for Light Up A Life. This very special evening of carols and remembrance offers families a unique way to remember the life of a loved one and to join with hundreds of others who want to share a special message for someone they love."

With music and readings and the opportunity for quiet reflection amid an array of coloured lanterns, the moving service is dear to our hearts at Wards Solicitors and one we have sponsored for a number of years.

Partner Rebecca Parkman, a member of Wards Solicitors' Wills, Probate and Mental Capacity team and office manager at Weston super Mare, says: "We are proud to support our local hospice which plays such a vital role within our community. The care and support it gives to people with life limiting illnesses, giving them choice as to whether they are treated and looked after in the hospice, their own home or a care home, is unparalleled."