Remembering with love

HUNDREDS of twinkling lights were switched on at the Manor House in Buntingford last Friday – in memory of lost loved ones. The Isabel Hospice, which is based in Welwyn Garden City, visited Buntingford and welcomed people to celebrate the lives of loved

HUNDREDS of twinkling lights were switched on at the Manor House in Buntingford last Friday - in memory of lost loved ones.

The Isabel Hospice, which is based in Welwyn Garden City, visited Buntingford and welcomed people to celebrate the lives of loved ones by taking part in their annual Lights of Love Ceremony.

Hundreds of lights were wrapped around a giant Christmas tree - which was sponsored by The Crow - and everyone taking part had the chance to sponsor a light in remembrance of their chosen family member or friend.

Gill Macdonald of the Isabel Hospice said: "The Lights of Love Ceremony has become an important part of Christmas.

"Each year more people are choosing this way to remember someone dear to them - whether it be a friend or a family member who will not be with them at Christmas.

"The ceremony is a very special night for all those who have lost someone, and this is now a national event that all hospices take part in."

The Christmas period is traditionally seen as a time when people celebrate, but it's also a time to reflect. The ceremonies themselves are often very moving and provide a time for thought and celebration.

"The Lights of Love Ceremony enabled guests to sponsor a light and celebrate a life and at the same time raise money for the hospice - which is a very positive thing," said Gill.

"People are helping us directly to provide quality care for patients and their families facing the stress of living with cancer and other life limiting illnesses in the East Hertfordshire area, and every donation is welcomed with thanks."

Guests included Buntingford mayor John Noades who switched on the lights, on and deputy mayor Jean Cook who joined the Aspenden Choir and the Reverend Norman Richards around the tree at the Manor House.

Readings were made and a number of Christmas carols were sung as the lights on the tree were switched on.

Each guest also had the chance to view the names in the hospice's Book of Love and took home a small star to hang on their own tree.

Councillor Noades said: "It was a well turned out event and the weather held out for us which was good. It's a charity I have always supported.