HUNDREDS of bereaved families will attend a remembrance service next month to celebrate the lives of lost loved ones.

St Cuthbert’s Hospice in Merryoaks, Durham City, will hold its annual Light Up A Life service for people of all faiths and backgrounds on Sunday, December 13.

This year, Eric Liddle, from Esh Winning, will be among the hundreds taking part in the poignant procession at Durham Cathedral at 7pm, where families and individuals can light tea lights on behalf of those who have passed away.

The 57-year-old said the previous service gave him the strength to get through his first Christmas without his much-loved partner of 13 years, Christine Potts.

Mr Liddle said: “It felt like there was a bond between each and every one of the people in the cathedral.

“It made me feel better inside. The fact all those people had been bereaved too. I think I will go every year now until my time comes.”

Ms Potts died at St Cuthbert’s Hospice in February 2014 and in the last fortnight staff brought a bed into her room so Mr Liddle could sleep next to her.

“I won’t ever forget her and Light Up A Life was a wonderful way of remembering her,” said Mr Liddle, who is now a volunteer at the hospice.

Kay Carrick, a senior fundraiser at the hospice, added: “Light Up a Life always feels like a very special night.

“It is lovely to take some time away from the busy festivities and spend a few moments reflecting on those who are no longer with us.

“It is also amazing to see so many people supporting the hospice in this way.”

All those remembered at the service will have their name entered in a Book of Remembrance and receive a commemorative card and a choice of either a photo star or pin badge as a thank you for their donation.

To donate to the Light up a Life campaign, kindly sponsored by Stuart Wright Funeral Services, contact Mrs Carrick on 0191-374 -6175 or visit stcuthbertshospice.com.

The average donation per name remembered in 2014 was £18.50 and nearly £12,000 was raised for St Cuthbert’s Hospice.