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North Devon’s two hospice charities are inviting people to come together to light a candle in memory of loved ones this Christmas.

For more than a quarter-of-a-century, the annual Light Up a Life appeal has shone brightly in communities across the region at a series of special church services, raising hundreds of thousands of pounds to provide vital care for local families at North Devon Hospice (NDH) in Barnstaple, and Children’s Hospice South West in Fremington.

The appeal suffered major disruption due to the pandemic but this December, both charities hope the services in Fremington, Woolsery, Ilfracombe, Barnstaple, Bideford and Torrington will provide a perfect opportunity to bring people together again to remember and celebrate the lives of loved ones.

Emma Perry, Head of Fundraising at CHSW, said: “It’s been such a challenging few years for people in so many different ways but we are very much looking forward to bringing the community together again this year.

Our Light Up a Life services are always very special and are open to everyone, not just those who have been supported by either hospice.

"They will offer heart-warming words of remembrance, carols and readings, as well as a chance to light a candle to remember those who are no longer with us.   

“Not only do they offer comfort and support to people at a very poignant time of the year, they are also a lovely way to support the incredible work of our two wonderful hospice charities here in North Devon.”

Lisa Mackenzie, Events Manager at NDH, added: “We are delighted to be inviting people from across North Devon to be part of this year’s Light Up a Life appeal and honour the memory of their loved ones this Christmas. 

“For many, not only do these beautiful services provide a moment for peace and reflection during the busy festive period, but they also offer a chance to directly support two vital charities providing a lifeline of care to local people and families.”

North Devon’s Light Up a Life has become an annual Christmas tradition that is almost as old as the two charities themselves and the North Devon Gazette has backed the appeal from day one. Editor Joe Bulmer said it was a privilege for the paper to be able to continue its 25-year support for the appeal and the vital work of the two hospices.  

He said: “We here at the Gazette are, as always, honoured to be a part of the Light Up a Life appeal. For more than 25 years this incredible appeal has allowed our communities the chance to remember those who are no longer with us while raising vital fund for our two amazing hospices.

"After the last few years of turmoil, these beautiful services held across North Devon offer a chance to reflect on what we hold dear and those people who made an impact on our lives.”

Light Up a Life is kindly sponsored by James Electrics. Make a donation to this year’s appeal and dedicate a star in memory of your loved one here