ST LUKE’S Hospice is again supporting Tavistock families missing a cherished family member or friend at this time of year with its Light up a Life, non-religious, joyous memorial service at St Eustachius’ Church on Thursday, December 10.

The service, starting at 7pm, includes carols, candles and an opportunity to come together at this special time of year to share and treasure memories.

Those wishing to attend events do not need to register or have tickets.

St Luke’s senior events fundraiser Emma Winter said: ‘It’s a tradition for St Luke’s to help people remember their loved ones at this time of year. We welcome the chance to celebrate the lives and legacies of those not with us, whether or not they were treated by St Luke’s, and think it’s important to give people the opportunity to come together and share memories this Christmas.’

The Rev Mike Loader, from St Eustachius’ said: ‘For those of us who have personal experience of a loved one spending their last days with us in this world, the care, tranquility and dignity offered by a hospice can be of immense comfort and value — far beyond what words can express.

In addition to the service on December 10, the hospice charity is also offering the chance to sponsor a light on the outside of its inpatient unit at Turnchapel in Plymouth, or a bauble on the hospice tree in return for a small donation.

These can be made via the St Luke’s website or by calling 01752 492626 before November 27.

It is estimated that over the Christmas week, more than 300 patients will be receiving specialist end of life care from St Luke’s, part of the 3,200 patients, and their families, treated each year.

Donations from the community raised by these and other events support people wherever they wish to be treated, at their homes, via St Luke’s at Derriford Hospital or at the inpatient unit at Turnchapel.