A COMMUNITY came together to remember loved ones and to support a local hospice during a candlelit procession yesterday.

A torchlight procession of nearly 200 people left Loughton Methodist Church, in Loughton High Road, and walked to Kings Green war memorial where tree lights were switched on and a ceremony was held.

The Light up a Life parade is an annual event to remember those who have died and to support St Clare Hospice in Hastingwood.

During the ceremony, the Reverend Gill Anderson from St John's Church led prayers and the Davenant Community Choir sang Christmas carols.

Speeches were made by Loughton Town Mayor Cllr Ken Angold-Stephens and chair of the trustees of St Clare Hospice, Michael Chapman.

Mr Chapman said afterwards: “The idea is that someone who has lost someone can come together and have a time of remembrance.

"Christmas is a time of family and people can be under a lot of emotional pressure. This sort of event means people can come together and don't need to worry.”

Masie Meadowcroft, 84, of Durhall Way, Loughton, has been attending the event for nine years but said this year was particularly poignant.

She said: “It was rather appropriate for me because I was at a funeral last week for my niece, Pat Meadowcroft, who died at the hospice. I have enjoyed this evening very much.”

Carol Hatch, 68, of Chigwell Row, Loughton, lost her son, Richard, to a brain tumour when he was just five-years-old and is a supporter of St Clare Hospice.

She said: “It is a long time ago since my son died, but you never forget because a child is such a part of you. It is great to have this event, even just to have a cup of tea with people and a chat.”

Epping Forest MP Eleanor Laing said: “It is a lovely way at this time of year in which people can remember their loved ones they have lost and at the same time help the hospice. I think St Clare Hospice is one of the most popular local charities because it does such a brilliant job.”

Cllr Ken Angold-Stephens said: “It was at least as successful as previous years, extremely good attendance. It was lovely to do it near to the newly-cleaned war memorial, which we have had lots of comments from people saying how nice it looks.”

To make a donation to St Clare Hospice call the town council on 8508 4200 or the hospice on 01279 773750