4.9.24

Families who are missing loved ones are being invited to a special service of remembrance which will see a communal Christmas tree lit up in celebration of those being remembered.

Severn Hospice is hosting its annual Lights of Love service at its Shrewsbury hospice on Sunday 1 December.

Shrewsbury Brass Band and Shrewsbury Male Voice Choir will set the mood for the service of music, carols and readings, which then culminates in hundreds of candles being lit by those attending and the lighting of the Christmas tree festooned with thousands of lights.

Invitations have gone out by post this week, with families being offered the chance to dedicate a light on the Christmas tree to their loved one.

Severn Hospice Chief Executive Heather Tudor said: “Christmas can be an especially difficult time for people who have lost someone and Lights of Love is a continuation of the care that we give families.

“The hospice has been part of the community for 35 years this year and Lights of Love is a moment when everything we are about comes together – complete care and community support. We wouldn’t be able to do anything of what we do without the community being behind us,” she added.

The hospice is again providing a free shuttle bus for those attending, running between the hospice on Clayton Way and the nearby Oxon Park and Ride, where parking will be free.

Dedications for Lights of Love can be made through the hospice’s website, its Shrewsbury and borders shops, or in hospice receptions.

Article photo: Dave Phillips