FAMILIES are being given the chance to remember loved ones while raising much-needed funds for Bolton Hospice.

The hospice’s annual Light Up A Life Appeal has returned for the whole of December.

Each Christmas, in return for a donation to the charity, lights are placed on trees, either at the hospice or at Bolton Parish Church, with each bulb representing the life of someone who has died.

The moving fundraiser is a major source of income for the hospice, while also providing comfort for those who have lost family or friends.

Colleen Kyne-Daly, from the hospice’s fundraising department, said: “This is a lovely way for people to remember their loved ones at Christmas.”

A service will be held tomorrow at the hospice at 7pm to turn on the lights.

Everyone is welcome at the Light Up A Life Christmas celebration.

Last year, more than 150 people attended the lights switch-on. A dedication service will follow on Wednesday, December 10, at Bolton Parish Church.

It will start at 7pm and feature songs sung by local school children.

It is hoped more than 500 people will be at the service.

Everyone who dedicates a light to someone will be entered into a book of dedication.

In January the book will be bound and displayed at the hospice, available to view all year round.

The Light Up A Life Appeal has been running for seven years and last year raised £29,000 towards the hospice’s work.

To light up a life contact the hospice on 01204 663055, visit boltonhospice.org, or drop into the hospice in Queens Park Street, off Chorley New Road.