HUNDREDS of people attended a special service at Winchester Cathedral for Naomi House children’s hospice.

The Light up a Life remembrance service last Tuesday (NOV26) was attended by some 550 people.

It offered everyone in the congregation a positive way to remember loved ones who have died and to celebrate their lives.

The poignant afternoon incorporated readings and hymns into the hour-long service and brought people together who were all showing their support for Naomi House. The congregation heard from parents whose children had passed away at Naomi House in previous years.

Following the speeches, Ollie Wade, 15, performed Free, a song personally composed and written in memory of his younger brother.

Attendees heard from Meridian News presenter Sarah Gomme, who opened and closed the service, as well as Naomi House chairman Khalid Aziz who spoke about the hospice’s work.

Pupils from St Swithun’s School made up the choir at the front of the cathedral and sang beautifully throughout.

At the front of the congregation sat the Dean, the Very Rev James Atwell, Canon Michael St. John-Channell, the Mayor and Mayoress of Winchester Councillor Frank and Ann Pearson, the chairman of the county council Andrew Joy and the High Sheriff of Hampshire Hallam Mills.

Paula Flower, In Memory Co-ordinator at Naomi House, said: “It was a delightful service and we are thrilled that so many supporters were able to attend. The service gave a wonderful opportunity to remember loved ones whilst supporting the vital work of Naomi House.

“We would particularly like thank the Dean for kindly allowing the service to take place”.