Last call to dedicate a star to a loved one before special Christmas concert

With just one week to go, families across North Devon have a final opportunity to honour loved ones as part of this year's Light Up a Life celebration.

There is still time to dedicate a star in memory of someone special at North Devon Hospice's annual Light Up a Life campaign, with the trees being illuminated and hung with stars at a special Christmas concert in Barnstaple Pannier Market on Thursday, December 18.

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The free event, beginning at 6pm, will feature performances from Churches Together Choir, pianist and musician Harry Wallace, Carry On Choir and singer-songwriter Gabby Young, alongside an array of festive food and drink.

For many attending, a true highlight will be watching their dedicated stars sparkle on the trees, each one representing a life cherished and a memory kept alive.

Above: Lauren Eddie as a young girl with her beloved nannie Jill, who was cared for by North Devon Hospice. Credit: Lauren Eddie

For Lauren Eddie, Light Up a Life holds profound meaning. Her grandmother, affectionately known as Nannie, spent her final days with care from North Devon Hospice.

Lauren said: “They didn't just care for Nannie, they cared for all of us. They created an environment where she was comfortable and surrounded by love.

“The compassion of North Devon Hospice's care teams held our family together when everything felt overwhelming.”

Lauren’s dedication this year is a way of celebrating Nannie whilst recognising the gap she left behind and she added: “There isn't a day that goes by where I don't miss her. Her gentle smile, her encouragement, her strength—they shaped the person I am today.”

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Lizzie Hanks, head of fundraising at North Devon Hospice, emphasised that each dedication serves a dual purpose during what can be the most difficult time of year for bereaved families.

She said: “Dedicating a star to someone you love through Light Up a Life is also a way of making something incredible happen in their memory.

“Every donation made when dedicating a star will help local people who need the care of the hospice this festive season. There are families in our care who will be spending their last Christmas all together, but your dedication can make sure it's filled with as much comfort and joy as possible.”

Above: What message would you like to write to a lost loved one this Christmas? Credit: North Devon Hospice

Those wishing to dedicate a star can visit North Devon Hospice’s stall in Barnstaple Pannier Market any Thursday evening during late-night shopping or dedicate online at https://www.northdevonhospice.org.uk/light

Dedications can be made online up until January 5.