Next month, the historic uphill streets of Lincoln will be lit by a torchlight parade, celebrating its 25th anniversary. Organised by St Barnabas Hospice, the event on 18 November is anticipated to pull in around 1,000 participants. This gathering allows people to honour their loved ones by dedicating a light in their honour. Starting from St Barnabas’s Inpatient Unit on Nettleham Road, runners will carry a flaming torch to Clayton Sports Ground. Once there, torches will be ignited, symbolising cherished memories of those being remembered.
Included in the event will be a reflection service held outside the famous Lincoln Cathedral, where attendees will congregate at a tree of life. Among those who will be participating this year is Sheila Flatters, who lost her husband, Malc, earlier this year. Sheila expressed her heartfelt thanks for the ‘dignity’ and ‘respect’ Malc was given during his stay at the hospice. She praised the exceptional care the St Barnabas team provided.
Since kicking off in 2000 with only 100 people, the procession has grown significantly and is now a primary fundraiser for the hospice. However, as noted by Amelia Chambers, Head of Fundraising and Marketing, “This year has presented challenges, with an increase in families in need of our support due to rising costs.”
The event not only bolsters the mission of the hospice to offer vital care but also stands as a significant tribute to the community spirit, and the enduring bonds of love and remembrance in Lincolnshire. This article is an adaptation of original reporting by the BBC.
