BARNSLEY Hospice’s Light Up a Life campaign raised more than £33,000 which will help deliver specialist care in the town.

The campaign involves donating to the hospice in memory of loved ones, and a light is dedicated to their memory on Christmas trees.

Two services were held as lives were celebrated at St Mary’s Church and Barnsley Hospice, with hundreds in attendance at both events in November and December.

A book of remembrance was also launched online for the first time, with almost 1,400 people remembered in the book.

A total of £33,263 was raised through the campaign.

Vicky Stead, community relationship manager at Barnsley Hospice, said: “Light Up a Life is one of the more poignant fundraising campaigns in our calendar, with the lives of loved ones at its heart.

“To have raised such a wonderful amount is a credit to all supporters and corporate sponsors who made both services possible.( “We had some very moving performances and readings, with people giving up their time to make Light up a Life the special event that it is.

“Thank you to our wonderful readers including our patron Dan Jarvis MP, the amazing singers and performers Carlton Main Frickley Colliery Band, South Yorkshire Police Band, Izzy Watson and Lily Banton. ( “Our online book of remembrance proved to be extremely popular, with many of those in attendance saying how nice it was that they could show the book to friends and family who live far and wide.

“Donating in memory of loved ones as part of Light Up a Life enables us to continue providing the best possible care to the people of Barnsley and those close to them.”