Hundreds of lights bathed Dr Kershaw’s Hospice in Royton as Oldham residents gathered for the annual Light Up a Life service, raising over £33,500 to support patients with life-limiting illnesses.

The multifaith ceremony drew a large crowd who braved the rain to remember loved ones through music, readings and the lighting of a dedication tree donated by Oldham Council. Crompton House Brass Band, the hospice choir and St Joseph’s RC Junior Infant and Nursery School provided musical performances, while Oldham Interfaith Forum delivered Hindu and Muslim readings.

Adele Doherty, CEO of Dr Kershaw’s Hospice, told the assembled crowd: “As we light our tree, each light shines as a reminder of loved ones and the cherished memories we hold. Light Up a Life is an opportunity to remember our loved ones with warmth and positivity. Attendees are also contributing to the vital work we do, ensuring that others can experience comfort and dignity in their final days.”

Dr Patricia Campbell from the clinical team read ‘Do Not Stand at my Grave and Weep’ during the outdoor service, which included a moment of silence. Inside, volunteers hand-wrote 1,208 dedications on paper stars for Christmas trees while names were added to the Book of Remembrance and displayed on-screen. The service was streamed on Oldham Community Radio 99.7FM and filmed by New Image, with mince pies donated by Hays Travel.

Alice Entwistle, Fundraising Events Lead, said: “We would like to say a massive thank you to each and every person who braved the rain to attend our Light Up a Life service. It was so wonderful to see so many people join together to remember and celebrate their loved ones.”

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