The annual event which has previously been held on the steps of the Civic Centre in Poole, will be held on Thursday 25 November

Guests do not need to have known a patient at the hospice in order to attend, as the service is open to all.

Steven J Tapper, director of Harbour View, said: “We are so pleased that we are able to offer Forest Holme Hospice our venue and be able to recommence our bereavement support events, which have been completely lacking during the pandemic. We believe such events to be an important tool for bereaved people to find their way in life following loss of a loved one.”

Led by the Rev John Taylor, this year’s event will be the usual mixture of carols and readings, with live music from the Sound Of Soul choir. Sherry and mince pies will be on offer after the service, which begins at 6.30pm.

For the very first time this year’s Light Up A Life will also be streamed live online for those who cannot make it to the event on the night. It is free to attend and although people do not need to pre-register, the hospice is requesting that anyone planning on attending or would like the link to watch the service online, to please contact them by emailing fundraising@forestholmehospice.org.uk or by registering online at www.forestholmehospice.org.uk/Light-Up-a-Life.

Paul Tucker, communications manager at Forest Holme, said: “We are absolutely delighted that Harbour View has offered us their stunning location for this year’s event. Not only is it a beautiful place but it also offers fantastic facilities, ample parking for our guests and most importantly at this time of year, we’re not dependant on the weather. We also have the added bonus of being able to stream the service live or have a recording available for those unable to attend.”

The service also signals the start of Forest Holme’s Light up a Life Appeal, which continues in the run-up to Christmas with a special Remembrance Tree outside M&S in The Dolphin Centre in Poole.