More than £25,000 has been raised for patient care at Dr Kershaw's Hospice through its annual Rose to Remember event at the hospice in Royton.

More than 1,400 people dedicated, donated or attended the event, which invites supporters to dedicate a bespoke metal rose in memory of loved ones. The money supports the hospice's free, specialist end-of-life and palliative care for adults with life-limiting illnesses in Oldham and surrounding areas.

The celebrant service was opened by David Whaley, former managing editor of the Oldham Chronicle, with live performances from Laura Mac and Failsworth Community Pop Choir.

Visitors explored the hospice's dementia-friendly gardens to find their roses, each personalised with a handwritten leaf bearing the name of their loved one. Afternoon tea was provided by the hospice's in-house Café K, and stalls included Kershaw's Krafties.

For the first time, guests could also see inside the Roger Tanner Building, the newest addition to the recently landscaped gardens. The building will house wellbeing services, training and community events.

Hassan Ali Jabbar, the newly appointed Youth Mayor of Oldham, attended and praised the 'incredible work' of Dr Kershaw's Hospice.

Adele Doherty, chief executive of Dr Kershaw's, said: "Dr Kershaw's has been part of this community for more than three decades. In that time, we have walked alongside thousands of families during some of life's most tender and challenging moments. We see courage, tenderness, humour, and love in its purest form. We know that when someone dies, their story doesn't end: it lives on in the people who cared for them, laughed with them, and held them close. Our Rose to Remember service is a way to honour these stories. Each rose is a reminder that every life leaves a mark, and every person we care for remains a part of our hospice family."

Adele Buckley, events and community fundraiser at the hospice, added: "Everyone who took part has made such a difference for patients and their families. By dedicating a rose, people are creating a lasting, meaningful tribute to someone who has shaped their life."

Buckley thanked guests, performers, volunteers and local businesses, including NatWest, Crane Payment Innovations and Co-op.

Rose to Remember is one of the events Dr Kershaw's Hospice holds throughout the year to raise funds. The hospice provides free, specialist end-of-life and palliative care for adults with life-limiting illnesses in Oldham and its surrounding areas.