Bournemouth Hospital Charity and Macmillan Caring Locally have teamed up for a special event called ‘Light up the Prom’ to remember or celebrate a loved one.
The ceremony last week involved participants buying tea lights to light up Bournemouth Pier.
The emotional evening started with a speech given by the Mayor, Councillor Christopher Mayne who shared his empathy for the lost loved ones.
He said: “We are all in the same situation, we are here but for a short period of time on this earth and it’s nice to have an occasion where everyone get’s together to remember people.”
The crowd also observed a one - minute silence in remembrance with a fireworks display marking the end of the ceremony.
In the run-up to the event participants bought electronic tea lights available at the Bournemouth Hospital Charity Office or at the Macmillan Caring Locally centre based in Christchurch.
All the names of those who were celebrated or remembered at the ceremony will be entered into a Book of Light held at both the Royal Bournemouth and Christchurch Hospital chapels.
The organisers were very pleased to sell over 700 tea lights with over a thousand people coming to the Bournemouth Pier to support the charity and the event.
Barry Wilson, Events Officer at Bournemouth Hospital Charity said: “We got together earlier this year and thought what kind of event we can do together.
“We wanted to do something visual and something that would appeal to both Bournemouth Hospital and Macmillan Caring Locally supporters.
“Everyone loves fireworks and everyone wants to remember loved ones. This event is specific because no matter the age or ability it brings everyone together.”
The lights and the fireworks lit the skies of Bournemouth Pier, while participants were emotional as they remembered those they’ve lost.
Bournemouth local, Kimberly, took part in the light show event in order to commemorate her grandfather.
She said: “It’s a noble cause and it brings everyone together.
If you are sad and feeling alone, then you can come here to an event like this where everyone else is feeling the same so you know you’re not on your own.”
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