Light up a Life campaign to help children’s hospice

The Boston Spa-based hospice, which cares for babies, children and young people with life-limiting conditions, is asking people around the county to light their candle at 7pm on Thursday December 10, in a joint act of remembrance.

The candle lighting is in place of the hospice’s usual Light up a Life services in Boston Spa, Skipton and Bradford, which have been cancelled due to the pandemic.

Mark Clayton, chaplain at Martin House, said: “We’re very saddened that we can’t hold our usual services, as we know how important they are to those grieving the loss of a loved one.

“But we hope, by lighting a candle at home, although we are not in the same place as one another this year, that our lights will shine together and remind us that we’re not alone, and our loved ones will never be forgotten.”

There is also an online Book of Dedication, where people can leave a message and post a photo of their loved one, in return for a donation.

Everyone who makes a dedication will receive a Light up a Life card to write their own dedication at home, along with a candle to light in memory of their loved one.

Mark added: “By donating to Martin House, you are helping us to care for babies, children and young people from across West, North and East Yorkshire, who need our support now more than ever.”

Martin House costs nearly £9 million a year to run, with the majority of its income reliant on fundraising and voluntary donations. It has been hit hard by the pandemic, and estimates it will lose £2.2 million in fundraising income in this financial year.

To make a dedication and donate to the hospice, visit www.martinhouse.org.uk/lightupalife. Dedications can be made until December 31.