People remember loved ones in torchlit parade

Over 1,000 people walked in memory of loved ones, raising £23,000 for St Barnabas Hospice as part of their annual Light Up A Life appeal.

 

Supporters of all ages walked from Clayton’s Sports Ground to Lincoln Cathedral, carrying flaming torches and lanterns in remembrance of loved ones. 

 

As is tradition, the Torchlight Procession paused at the Hospice’s Inpatient Unit on Nettleham Road for a rendition of Amazing Grace, which patients, staff and volunteers at the Inpatient Unit were able to enjoy.

At the front of the Procession was Sheila Flatters, who dedicated a light to honour her beloved husband, Malc, who died in the Hospice in 2023. As the procession came to a close, Sheila, joined by her grandsons Liam and Jacob, carried the flaming torch forward, symbolically lighting the ceremonial torch at Lincoln Cathedral.

The service of celebration, compered by Melvyn Prior, included songs from local choirs and a message of thanks from Chris Wheway, Chief Executive of St Barnabas Hospice. 

Chris Wheway said: “It’s been my 10th year of doing this procession, and it never ceases to move me in a very special way. By being here, we’re not only remembering and honouring people, but we are also changing lives for people who are currently dying today, and tomorrow, and in the future.

“It’s an honour to be part of this celebration each year. Just know that you’ve made a difference to many, many people in the coming months and years. So, thank you so much for tonight and for your ongoing support of your hospice because we need it absolutely.”

The 30ft Tree of Life outside the Lincoln Cathedral was illuminated during a touching performance of May The Road Rise to Meet You, sung by Annie Griffith and her Community Choirs, who have supported this event for 10 years. 

Supporters were then invited to write Messages of Love and tie them to the railings surrounding the tree, sending a special message to loved ones no longer here. 

Eleanor Fellows, Fundraising Officer at St Barnabas, said: “It was an incredibly moving evening, made even more special by marking 25 years of this poignant event. At a time when we’re facing financial challenges, it means so much to have so many join us in remembrance.

“We want to thank everyone who walked the Procession, and those who have so generously donated to our Light Up A Life appeal. It really does make such a difference. And a special thanks to HomeLet, all our corporate supporters and volunteers who have made the evening possible.”

Thanks to ticket sales and donations on the night, the Torchlight Procession raised over £23,000. In addition, the Light Up A Life campaign has raised more than £36,000 so far this year.

The appeal sees supporters dedicating lights in memory of loved ones each Christmas, now shining brightly on the Tree of Life outside Lincoln Cathedral. Over the past two and a half decades, more than 20,000 people have been honoured.

Ellie Carter, Legacy and In Memory Manager at St Barnabas, said: “You can remember anyone, not just those cared for by the Hospice. There’s still time to dedicate a light in memory of a loved one through the St Barnabas website, where you can also upload a photo and a message in tribute.

“Every donation for a light pays for more people to receive specialist end-of-life care, and more families to receive bereavement support during the most difficult times. Without this support, we simply couldn’t do what we do.”

It has been a challenging year for St Barnabas, and each donation helps meet the urgent needs across Lincolnshire and protects St Barnabas’ future. £22 could fund an hour of hospice nursing care, bringing comfort and expert support to patients and their families. £42 could bring comfort to a patient in their own home, helping them feel safe and cared for.

The Tree of Life sits outside the Cathedral until early January and is completely free to visit for a moment of quiet reflection. 

Those who were unable to attend the event are still able to watch the live streams on Facebook, or dedicate a light on the Tree of Life at: https://stbarnabashospice.co.uk/light-up-a-life/

Pictures: Stuart Wilde