THERE is just over a week to go until this year's Globe-backed Light Up A Life ceremony for Wirral Hospice St Johns.

Ten thousand bulbs will be switched on in memory of loved ones during the ceremony in the hospice gardens on Sunday, December 4 at 5.30pm.

Each of the lights will have been sponsored in memory of a loved one.

The switch-on will be followed by a remembrance service at St James' Church in New Brighton on Tuesday, December 6 at 7pm.

The event is free to attend, but places must be reserved in advance.

A book of honour showing names of loved ones will be on display in the hospice chapel from switch-on day and every day in the lead up to Christmas.

Julia Evans (pictured below), fundraising events manager for the hospice, told the Globe today: "This beautiful memorial campaign began in 1996 following our Sunrise Appeal, which raised much-needed funds to build a new in-patient ward."

Wirral Globe:

Julia continued: "Back then it was just two trees that were illuminated in memory of loved ones.

"Today, we have more than 10,000 lights decorating trees and our hospice’s building.

"We know how important Light Up A Life is to our supporters.

"Since Light Up A Life began, it's raised £1.5m. Last year, we raised £90,000.

"It costs £3.9m to run the hospice for a year, so all money raised helps us provide the support we need.

"We appreciate the support from the local community; without them we wouldn't be able to operate.

"Every year we always aim to raise £100,000 from the light switch on.

"It's thanks to the public support that we achieve that every year."

More than 2,000 people attended last year's switch-on.

To support this year's appeal, call 0151 343 0778 or visit www.wirralhospice.org