If you will be remembering someone who will be missed this Christmas, you can dedicate a light in their memory.

It is part of Light up a Life in Dorset, where Weldmar Hospicecare will be holding services of remembrance.

Anyone can dedicate a light to a loved one whether they were cared for by Weldmar or not, lights will be hosted on trees around Dorset.

Services will be held at each of the trees in early December, featuring traditional hymns, readings and reflection.

For 2022, Light up a life will be coming to Blandford for the first time, joining Weymouth, Dorchester, Wareham, Gillingham, Sherborne, Bridport and Lyme Regis.

For anyone unable to attend in person, services will also be broadcast on Weldmar's Facebook and YouTube channels, which will be available until Christmas.

Lynn Gregory will again be dedicating a light to her mum, Rita, who had Motor Neurone Disease and was cared for at Weldmar until she died in 2017.

Lynn said: "Weldmar provided a beautiful end to Mum’s life, which I am so grateful for. Unless you have experienced it, it’s so difficult to explain just how amazing they are. Light up a Life is such a special way for us to remember Mum."

Gloria McCartney, Supporter Care Lead in Weldmar’s Fundraising Team, said: "We know that Light up a Life is a very special way for people to remember their loved ones in the run up to Christmas.

"We often hear from those who dedicate a light every year that it really marks the start of Christmas for them.

"Not only is it a chance to remember those who will be missed, but the donation in return for dedicating a light means that Weldmar can continue to provide specialist care for people living with a life limiting illness in Dorset, and supporting their loved ones too."

Those who dedicate a light in return for a donation to Weldmar Hospicecare will also receive a special wooden star to hang on their local tree or personal Christmas tree, as well as a handwritten card from Weldmar, and a copy of the order of service.

 

Local services will take place at the following locations in December:

Friday 2: Bridport - Groves Garden Centre 6.30pm

Tuesday 6: Dorchester - Weldmar's Inpatient Unit 6.30pm

Monday 12: Online - Weldmar's Facebook and YouTube 7.30pm

Sunday 18: Lyme Regis - Part of the Parish Carol Service at St Michael's Church 4pm