... as 500 remember loved ones

NEARLY 500 people remembered their loved ones at a packed Rossendale Hospice Light up a Life service.

St Mary’s Church in Rawtenstall was packed to the rafters with almost 800 dedications made.

The names of those remembered were shown on screens, during a reflective candlelit service.

Local singing talents Sean Ruane and Megan Makin sang a beautiful duet of ‘The Prayer.’

This, along with singing from Crawshawbooth Primary School Choir and music from 2nd Rossendale Scout Band created an emotive atmosphere.

Sam Morris, hospice fundraising manager, said dedications and attractions at the event raised an ‘amazing’ £13,890 for the hospice.

She said: “Our Light up a Life is one of the most memorable and heartfelt events. It also marks the last event in this special 30th anniversary year.

“This event allows people to remember our loved ones at Christmas, but also provides essential funds to ensure our services continue for local people.

“Thank you to everyone who contributed, including our sponsors Fred Hamer Funeral Services.” ●● Rossendale Hospice Light up a Life service at St Mary’s Church in Rawtenstall. Pictures by Andrea Rhodes

AROUND £3,000 was raised for Rossendale Hospice at the annual Christmas ball.

The event at Whitworth’s Riverside featured a five-course meal with entertainment from Elvis tribute act Jim Santana & The Midnight Vegas Band.

Bacup councillor Jimmy, completed his final fundraising event after 40 years of charity work as we reported last week. He said the band was ‘brilliant’ and it was a full house. He thanked Lords Caterers and “the people who donated auction and raffle prizes that with their generosity again made it another successful event. Finally, a big thanks to David Edmondson who has been helping me organise these events for many years.” A donation page to mark Jimmy’s decades of fundraising will remain open until New Year’s Day. Visit www.justgiving. com/fundraising/ jimmy-eaton. ESCORTED HOLIDAY