A POIGNANT cathedral service when bereaved friends and relatives can remember someone special in the run-up to Christmas will return this weekend.

Hundreds of people are expected to attend the annual Light Up A Life service organised by St Cuthbert’s Hospice, in Durham.

This year’s candle-lit service is to take place at Durham Cathedral on Sunday at 7pm, led by the Dean of Durham and featuring music from Durham Miners’ Association Brass Band and The Durham Singers.

Kay Carrick, from the hospice, said: “At St Cuthbert’s we understand the festive period can be a very difficult time of year for those who have lost a loved one, especially so if it is the first Christmas without someone we hold dear.

“The feeling of isolation can be overwhelming, yet we know that people can find great comfort in being with others who have experienced a similar loss.

“The service is an opportunity to come together as a community to reflect and remember.”

She added: “There’s something about being at Durham Cathedral that instantly brings a feeling of comfort and is a wonderful space for contemplation, no matter what faith or beliefs you have.

“Many people tell us they find the experience uplifting, and lighting a candle in the Cathedral for a loved one brings them great comfort.”

Anyone attending the event can have the names of a loved one entered into a Book of Remembrance, which will be dedicated at the service.

Money raised through the event will go towards helping local families cope with the effects of life-limiting illnesses over Christmas and beyond.

To donate to the Light Up a Life campaign, please contact Senior Donor Development Fundraiser Kay Carrick on 0191 374 6175 or visit stcuthbertshospice.com.