Hospice service set to light up church again

THE Light up a Life service, which is enjoyed by more than 300 people each year, finally returns to St Mary’s Church in Rawtenstall this festive season.

This year the service, organised by Rossendale Hospice, starts at 7pm on Thursday, December 9.

Last year’s service was cancelled due to the pandemic when government restrictions could not permit the community to gather.

Christmas Wreaths were created and enjoyed by hundreds of people in the Valley. After popular demand, the wreaths which lined the streets of Rossendale during the pandemic, will return - with a difference.

Clare Richards, Head of Fundraising said: “Everyone enjoyed the wreaths which stood for all to see during a time when we could not gather as a community.

“This year, we wanted to bring them back but also allow supporters to possess them as a keepsake, which is not available when we attach them to lampposts, due to health and safety reasons.”

Christmas Wreaths are now available to hang on doors or in private gardens with the option of adding their own outdoor lights to make them shine bright.

Light up a Life dedications need to be submitted by December 1 and can be done online at www. rossendalehospice.org/ lightupalife.