LIGHTS in memory of those no longer with us are set to shine bright throughout Herefordshire and beyond this festive season.

Candles will be lit and dedications left at 18 events during Light up a Life.

Led by St Michael’s Hospice, the names of loved ones can be recorded in a Book of Remembrance ahead of the service you wish to attend.

The public can also help create a new project launched by the Archbishop of Canterbury during his recent visit to St Michael’s.

Archbishop Justin Welby wrote a short dedication to the hospice which was placed in an illuminated jam jar.

St Michael’s will shortly be inviting the public to write a message to a loved one they’ll be remembering this Christmas.

Each message will be placed in separate illuminated jam jars, helping form a display of light during the final Light up a Life event at Hereford Cathedral on December 15.

Messages can be written at the hospice reception in Bartestree from November 1 or by visiting the hospice information point vehicle at the Old Market in Hereford during late night Christmas shopping on November 20 and 27.

Light up a Life begins with an outdoor gathering at St Michael’s on November 28 at 5.30pm.

"We miss those close to us each and every day but for many, Christmas can be a particularly difficult time," said Jill Groves from the hospice’s spiritual care team.

"Light up a Life gives those dear to us the chance to shine this festive season.

"Their names can be included in the Book of Remembrance at your choice of venue, as well as during our biggest remembrance service of the year at Hereford Cathedral."

All Light up a Life events are free to attend.

For a full list of venues, and details about how to ensure your loved one’s name appears in a Light up a Life Book of Remembrance, visit st-michaels-hospice.org.uk/events

Jam jar messages, meanwhile, can be written at St Michael’s Hospice’s main reception in Bartestree from November 1, with more locations in addition to the Old Market to be announced on the Hospice website in due course.