SOBELL House is inviting people of Oxfordshire to join them for their annual remembrance service, Lights of Love, on December 5.

This is a chance for the community to come together and celebrate the lives we have loved and lost.

Usually, the service would be held in person, where people would be invited to remember their loved ones, however, this year, due to coronavirus restrictions, the event cannot be held at the hospice, so the service has been transformed to be held online, shown live on their website.

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The Lights of Love service includes short readings and music.

The highlight of the service will be the switching on the Lights of Love on the large tree outside the hospice.

Each light will shine in dedication of the memory of someone special.

Sobell House are also inviting people to write a message in dedication of their loved ones on Memory Stars.

All stars received back will be displayed at the hospice and will be shown as part of the online service.

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Ray Farmer, who has attended the annual Lights of Love events since his wife Sheila was cared for by Sobell House in 2009 said: "I have attended Lights of Love at Sobell House for many years.

"It’s a community event, a shared experience where we come together to remember so many loved ones.

"This year, as in previous years, there will be a light on the tree for my dear wife Sheila.

"It is going to be different this year, but I know that I will find this year’s online service just as moving and uplifting."

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Srinder Singh, Head of Bereavement Support at Sobell House said: "I know this has been an incredibly challenging year for our community, particularly for all those who have been shielding.

"The lockdown restrictions have meant that so many of us have been unable to see our family or friends – let alone visit a loved one in hospital, say a last goodbye, or pay last respects at the funeral.

"That’s why, in this of all years, we want our Lights of Love remembrance service to be for everyone who mourns a loss; no matter when and no matter the cause."

You can sign up to the service by calling   01865 857007 or visiting the website: https://sobellhouse.org/event/lights-of-love