Light up a Life invites people to donate Alice House Hospice in memory of loved ones – all who take part receive a commemorative pin badge, personalised card and a listing in the campaign’s annual Book of Remembrance, displaying the names of those being remembered. The appeal ends with services in Hartlepool and Peterlee Churches where Christmas trees and candles are lit in tribute.

Light up a Life is sponsored by Victoria House Funeral services who are based in Victoria Road, Hartlepool; staff members attended both services.

The services were held over 12-13 December, in Saint Paul’s Church in Hartlepool and Saint Cuthbert’s Church in Peterlee, respectively.

Speakers at the events included Apolena Wilson from Victoria House, Celebrant Helen Greenwell, High Tunstall pupil Idha Hildreth and Lorna Jones, who is the daughter of Hospice founder Alice Bendle and is Vice-Chair of the Hospice’s board of Trustees. Lorna delivered a heartfelt Christmas message, which paid tribute to Alice and her original vision of Hospice care.

There were also performances from Choral Interlude and Saint Cuthbert’s Church Choir. The services were led by Father Richard Masshedar and Reverend Canon Jane Grieve.

Greg Hildreth, a Senior Manager at the Hospice who said, “We are grateful to everyone who made these the special events that they were – it was lovely to see so many in attendance over both nights and I hope that they were able to offer some comfort to people.

The speakers, choirs and messages shared were a perfect way to remember the people we miss and to celebrate their lives together. Thanks to everyone who supported and took part and special thanks go to our regular sponsors, Apolena and her team at Victoria House.”