ST MARGARET’S Hospice Care is inviting everyone to take part in Light up a Life this winter - which offers a chance to celebrate and remember the lives of loved ones.

Open to the entire Somerset community, Light up a Life allows people to remember those they've lost while helping raise crucial funds to support free hospice care across Somerset.

This year, the Taunton-based hospice aims to raise £50,000, ensuring it can continue to provide compassionate care for patients with life-limiting illnesses and their loved ones.

“You can celebrate and remember the lives of your loved ones this Christmas by dedicating a star in their memory,” says George Cockburn, supporter care manager at St Margaret’s.

By making a donation, participants will not only commemorate the memories of those they’ve lost but also help the hospice provide vital care for people facing life-limiting illnesses, at home, in the community and in the hospice’s In-Patient Unit.

St Margaret’s supports families at some of the most difficult times in their lives. One such story is Ian’s - a man whose final months were bettered by the hospice's support.

Ian received care from St Margaret’s community nurses then, when his condition worsened, he moved to the in-patient unit, where he found not only medical care but peace and dignity in his final days.

Yvonne, Ian’s wife, recalls the moments they were able to share, even as the end approached: “St Margaret’s took away the fear and the pain. We had time; time to sit, to talk, to hold hands. There was no rush, just moments we’ll treasure forever. I can’t tell you how much that meant to us.”

Join St Margaret’s Hospice this Christmas by making a donation and dedicating a star in memory of someone special at www.st-margarets-hospice.org.uk/light-up-a-life.