More than 300 people gathered at a hospice to ‘light up the community’ in honour of their loved ones.

The ‘Light up a Life’ event, hosted by St Luke’s Hospice in Kenton Road, Harrow, allowed them to remember and celebrate those they have lost.

They were invited to light an individual candle or dedicate a bulb on the hospice tree, which will glow until the New Year.

Zaynab Chatoo, whose mother received care at St Luke’s, was one of those to give a speech at the hour-long event.

She said: “The staff and volunteers she interacted with were so caring, it was as if they were almost family in the way that they went above and beyond to look after the patients.

“St Luke's was able to ensure that my mum was able to pass away peacefully with her family around her and religious obligations fulfilled.

“It’s almost ten years since my mother was a patient here. I don't think that I will ever be able to repay their kindness, no matter how many Midnight Walks I walk.

“St Luke's is a truly special place. I know it certainly holds a special place in many of our hearts and it certainly lit up my mother’s life.”

The afternoon, described by the hospice as its “most meaningful event of the year”, raised more than £14,000; vital funds which will be used to provide care and support in the future.