Hundreds of touching messages were hung on the Peace Hospice Care Lights of Love tree on Wednesday evening in the annual ceremony of reflection and remembrance.

Peace Hospice Care co-ordinator Lyn Bassett, welcomed the crowds to the lighting up ceremony and her words stirred hearts and memories as the evening unfolded.

Watford Observer:

She said: "All through the Christmas season your lights will continue to shine out."

There were carols, readings and a powerful rendition of Somewhere Over the Rainbow, sung by Charlie Smith, befpre the Lights of Love was illuminated.

Stepping forward with pride to light up the tree and warm the hearts of the crowd was 11 year old Caithlin O’Brien from Bushey whose mum Maria had died at the Hospice in February 2013. Caithlin’s family stood close by remembering Maria and also taking time to remember Maria’s mum who lost her life to cancer in October 2012.

Hospice Director of Patient Services Jackie Tritton gave the crowd further time to reflect with her "Miss You" reading, and the Director of Fundraising Tony Feasey delivered strong words that reminded the community that "loved ones live in your heart".

Hospice Community Fundraising Manager Gill Crowson said: "It was a very emotional evening for many people as they gathered to remember loved ones.

"Lights of Love has become an important event, not just to those people that have had direct experience of Hospice services, but to the local community as a whole. I would like to take the opportunity of thanking everyone who has helped to make Lights of Love happen this evening. This event is important to so many people."

For Jane Williams and her mum Jane Parker, Lights of Love is particularly significant.

Jane explained: "My dad Graham lost his life at the Hospice on December 17 two years ago.

‘He was looked after so well. I won’t ever forget the care he received. And I won’t ever forget him. Coming here to the Lights of Love is a great comfort.

"I remember when my dad was here, there was a Christmas tree being put up in the hospice and my dad could see it in his room. I came here tonight to remember him."