ORGANISERS of this year's Light Up A Life campaign for Wirral's Hospice St John's have praised the public's incredible support.

The appeal, now in its 19th year, raises much-needed funds for the Clatterbridge-based hospice, currently celebrating its 30th anniversary.

It culminates in a switch-on ceremony at the venue on Sunday, December 1, which stars 5.30pm. Turning the 6,000 lights on will be Upton brothers Tomas, aged six, and 11-year-old Louie Stiles.

The Globe has been a long-time supporter of the campaign, helping inspire readers to sponsor a light in memory of a loved one.

It has so far raised more than £56,000 and with just over two weeks to go until this year's switch-on there is still time to help.

Hospice fundraising manager Hayley Gough said: "We're really pleased with the way this year's appeal is going. People have taken it to their hearts and their support .

"We need this year to be a very special one, as the hospice is celebrating its 30th anniversary, so we want as many people as possible to get behind us."

Tom and Louie Stiles will be switching on the lights in memory of dad Rich, who died at the hospice in September last year months after being diagnosed with pseudomyotonia peritonis, a tumour affecting the stomach.

The lights are sponsored in the names of lost loved ones and will remain lit until Twelfth Night in January.

There will also be a special carol service at St James Church, in New Brighton, on Wednesday, December 4.

This year, the names of all those remembered will feature in a special keepsake order of service. available on the night of the switch-on.

The names of those honoured will feature in special books on view from 5pm to 7pm daily until Friday, December 6.

To Light Up A Light for a loved one, simply fill out the coupon in this week's Globe.

You can also support the fundraising campaign by purchasing special pin badges from the hospice.

Further details are from www.wirralhospice.org