ST Margaret of Scotland Hospice welcomed hundreds of people at the weekend for their annual Light Up a Life service.

The poignant service sees the lighting of their Christmas tree in memory or honour of loved ones and is a particularly important part of their festive season.

And the weather was kind on Sunday evening as hospice chief executive Sister Rita and chairman Professor Leo Martin and others spoke. Canon Gerard Tartaglia and Rev Bill Ferguson led the service.

Everyone who took part by sponsoring a light will have a Christmas card sent to them if desired or a chosen family member, confirming that a light on the tree has been dedicated to their loved one, whose name will also appear on the card.

The lights will remain on continuously until January 6.

Sister Rita said: “Light Up A Life is a beautiful service and very well-attended. At this time of year, it allows the opportunity to come together to remember loved ones in a special way.

“The tree symbolises life and the lights on the tree represent all those loved ones who have touched our lives and will never be forgotten. The service is about allowing families and friends to remember loved ones and offering them support and compassion when they are grieving at this time.”

Sponsorship forms for lights can still be collected from the hospice or ordered by phoning 0141 435 7018. You can also donate to the Light Up A Life 2017 appeal through smh.org.uk.

The Christmas bus will be going through the area soon. Fundraising activities in the coming weeks include the Christmas bus throughout West Dunbartonshire and other parts of the west of Scotland.