THE response to the annual Light Up A Life campaign has overwhelmed fundraisers at Pendleside Hospice.

Almost £60,000 has been donated in memory of loved ones.

Light Up A Life allows a donation to be made to the hospice in order to dedicate a coloured light bulb to the memory of a loved one.

All the lights are displayed around the outside of the hospice building and are first illuminated at two services over the weekend of December 17 and 18.

The lights remain lit until the beginning of January.

After Christmas, the names are entered into a Book Of Remembrance that is kept on display.

Hospice Fundraising manager Kaye Bartle said: "Light Up A Life is much more than a fundraising campaign.

"Over the years it has grown to be part of Christmas celebrations for so many people as it gives them the opportunity to remember their loved one in a positive way at what can be a sad time."

The hospice provides care to local people suffering from cancer and other life-limiting illnesses.

To Light up a Life call 01282 440100.