People of Winchester gather to remember loved ones ahead of Christmas

Almost 200 people gathered together this evening to remember those they love who won’t be with them this Christmas.

Winchester Hospice’s annual Light up a Life remembrance service took place at Christ Church and local people gathered to share readings and musical performances before they paused for a moment of reflection to remember those they love.

Alex Whitfield, Chief Executive at Hampshire Hospitals Trust, which manages the hospice, gave a reading before the congregation enjoyed a performance by local community choir Winchester Sings which performed Driving Home for Christmas and an original song, written by musical director Nigel Hemming, aptly titled Light up a Life.

The service was lead by Revd. Simon Cansdale, who delivered a moving sermon about grief, Trust chaplain Sarah Wehr also gave a moving reading and guests sang well-known carols before they were presented with hand-made stars as they left as a keepsake from the event. Everyone then joined together to enjoy light refreshments and share memories of Christmas with their loved ones as they looked through the book of remembrance, full of dedications to those they miss.

Jo Westerman, fundraising officer at Winchester Hospice, said: “We know Christmas time can be incredibly difficult for those who have lost a loved one. Whether that loss was recent, or many years ago, the traditions of this time of year can spark memories and emotions that we want to channel. Tonight’s Light up a Life service has been a poignant way for us all to come together and celebrate the lives of those who won’t be with us this year and has given us the opportunity to reflect and remember those who are so important to us.”

The event has raised almost £10,000 for the hospice, which will go towards supporting the care offered to patients and their families.