THE lives of lost loved ones will once again be remembered through the St Margaret’s Hospice Light up a Life appeal.
The charity runs Light up a Life over the festive period each year, giving people the chance to celebrate and remember the lives of loved ones while supporting community hospice care.
St Margaret’s aims to raise £50,000 through this year’s appeal to help provide vital care for people living with life-limiting illnesses across Somerset.
And, after several years of virtual-only services, following requests from the Somerset community, St Margaret’s is bringing back in-person remembrance events this December.
In-person Light up a Life events 2025 in aid of St Margaret’s Hospice:
- Thursday, December 4, 6pm–7.30pm: Remembrance gathering at Monkton Elm Garden Centre, Taunton
- Sunday, December 7, 2.30pm–4pm: Remembrance service at St John’s Church, Yeovil
The events are free to attend but booking is essential, the charity said, with the Yeovil service set to be filmed and available online from Sunday, December 14, making it accessible to those unable to attend in person.
Light up a Life is open to anyone wishing to honour someone they miss – loved ones do not need to have been cared for by St Margaret’s Hospice, offering several meaningful ways to remember, including dedicating a star in someone’s memory, attending a remembrance gathering, or watching the recorded service from home.
“It means so much to us that the community asked for in-person events to return, and we are proud to be able to do that this year,” said Hannah Roberts, head of fundraising for St Margaret’s Hospice Care.
“Light up a Life is a time for everyone in Somerset to come together. Whether you are remembering someone who died recently or many years ago, these events offer comfort, connection and a chance to remember their life.”
People can also dedicate a star online, including a personal message and photo to share with family and friends.
All dedications received by Friday, December 5, can be included in the filmed Yeovil remembrance service if supporters wish.
At the heart of this year’s appeal is the story of Kath and her son Jack, who are remembering Rob – a partner and father known for his warmth, curiosity and love of the stars.
Life changed suddenly when Rob was diagnosed with advanced cancer, and as his condition worsened, St Margaret’s supported the family both at home and later on the In-Patient Unit.
“For us, the hospice was a place where we could relax as a family,” Kath said. “Whether you want to laugh or cry, there is always someone there. The hospice lifted a weight off our shoulders and gave us time to enjoy our time with Rob.”
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