The Light up a Life appeal run by Colchester's St Helena Hospice has raised an estimated £20,000.

Light up a Life - crowds gather for the appeal at St Helena Hospice. Picture: STEVE ARGENT (40185-7)

The campaign, supported by the Gazette, saw families invited to buy symbolic lights in memory of lost loved ones, to hang on Christmas trees put up in towns across north Essex.

Their telephone contributions came to £16,500 and donations made at St Helena's charity shops are still to be added to the total.

About 120 people, most of whom were relatives of former patients, attended the final Light up a Life service in the grounds of the High Woods hospice. Mulled wine and mince pies were served at a reception afterwards.

Though all the Christmas trees are now up, you can continue donating right up until Christmas Day by calling 01206 791740.

Published Wednesday, December 22, 2004

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