St Columba’s Hospice Care will be lighting up its Trees of Remembrance on Monday 6th December in Charlotte Square Gardens, Edinburgh and Thursday 9th December in St Mary’s Pleasance Courtyard, Haddington, for its annual Christmas appeal, ‘Light up a Life’.
The services are open to all, not just those with a connection to the Hospice; and the lights on the Tree of Remembrance symbolise dedications made by supporters across Edinburgh and the Lothians in memory of people who have died.
St Columba’s Hospice Care Chief Executive, Jackie Stone, spoke about the importance of the appeal to the Hospice. She said: “Light up a Life is a hugely important appeal for us, as it brings the St Columba’s Hospice Care community together at what can be a time of mixed emotions for many who are remembering a loved one.
“The donations we received last year, in excess of £110,000, helped us to reach patients and families across Edinburgh and East Lothian. The money raised this year will enable us to bring world leading palliative care to even more of the people who need it in our communities.”
The Tree of Remembrance lighting ceremonies draw thousands of people and this year’s events will open at 5.30pm, before the services begin at 6.30pm.
The events are sponsored by Farmer’s Autocare and Walter Scott Foundation. Performing at both services this year is Ciara Harvie, a 23 year old classical crossover singer from Edinburgh.
Her reputation is now global, with regular appearances in Europe and beyond, as the world continues to be wowed by this young classical singer possessing a voice filled with passion, warmth, soul, and maturity.
The Edinburgh Brass Band will also perform in Charlotte Square Gardens.
Anyone is welcome to attend a service, simply email
to let us know your name, venue of choice and the number of guests.
The trees will remain lit throughout the festive period until Monday 3rd January.
Dedications can be made online throughout December at
stcolumbashospice.org.uk/light-up-a-life-2021
or by calling 0131 551 1381.