BOLTON Hospice has confirmed that this year’s annual Light up a Life service will be going virtual as organisers look to reflect the current social distancing restrictions.

Each Christmas, the hospice invites people to dedicate a light in memory of a loved one over the festive period.

The lights all shine on special commemorative trees at the hospice and Bolton Parish Church allowing relatives to keep the memories of their loved ones alive during what can be a difficult time for some.

Due to the coronavirus pandemic, this year will see the hospice move their services online with a ‘Light Up a Life at Home’ service being shared on their Facebook page.

A spokesperson for the hospice said: “The local hospice’s virtual service will carry the spirit of traditional services, and will include beautiful performances from local choirs, traditional carols, readings, and a reflective moment of silence as you together with the hospice, remember loved ones no longer with us.”

One person who will be taking part this year is Jane Hannay who lost her husband Mark last year.

Jane said: “It was a time of uncertainty and worry for us all but the Hospice staff very quickly put us at ease.

“Mark was treated with the utmost care and respect and anyone that visited was made to feel very welcome. The staff made Mark feel at home and like he was the only person that mattered to them; no request was too great.

“Knowing that Mark was happy and being treated this way was a huge comfort to me, his family and his friends.”

After hearing Mark, who died on December 30, was a huge Bolton Wanderers fan, the hospice staff even arranged for the squad to visit him and the other patients.

“There’s no doubt Mark was given the best care to the end,” added Jane. “ The hospice provided a vital service including emotional support, empathy and respect.”

To find out more go to: boltonhospice.org.uk/LUAL