RESIDENTS came together in memory of their loved one at the annual Light up a Life service.

Held on the evening of December 1. the event organised by St. Michael’s Hospice lit up the night’s sky as families gathered to pray and sing carols.

Guided by a beam of light shining brightly into the nights sky, hundreds of people joined the service in the Hospice grounds to remember and celebrate the life of a loved one.

The event began with the Hospice’s Christmas light switch on with a 10ft tree donated by Asset Advantage Limited illuminated for everyone to enjoy.

The service featured prayers from Reverend Tom Honey, Chaplain of St. Michael’s Hospice along with Carols from Ooh Mama Ladies Choir, accompanied by music from the Basingstoke Silver Band.

In the lead up to the service, hundreds of people dedicated a star in memory of a loved one, with a wall of stars featuring special messages displayed on the night.

Laura Holmes, events manager for St. Michael’s Hospice said: “Our Light up a Life service is a very special event for our supporters, staff and volunteers. It was wonderful to see so many families at our Hospice sharing precious memories of their loved ones.

"Although there are many poignant moments in the service, it is also a time for celebration with people coming together to sing Carols and enjoy a glass of mulled wine and a mince pie.

"We are extremely grateful to all our supporters who joined us on the night and to those who dedicated a star to our sky."

She added: "This event wouldn’t be possible without the support of the local community including our wonderful volunteers, De La Rue Charitable Trust, Apollo Hotel Basingstoke, Ooh Mama Ladies Choir, Basingstoke Silver Band, Petra Jewellery, Revolution Vehicles and Tesco Chineham.”

To support the hospice visit stmichaelshospice.org.uk.