Lancaster security manufacturer supports city hospice in Christmas remembrance fundraiser

St John’s is a local, charity-led hospice supporting a population of 250,000 people in north Lancashire, South Lakes and parts of North Yorkshire.

Providing palliative care for patients with life shortening conditions, the hospice has been caring for the community since 1986.

Light up a Life is a unique fundraising event which has been held by the hospice each Christmas for more than 10 years.

Members of the community are invited to dedicate a light, either in memory of a loved one or to honour someone still in their life, in exchange for a donation to the hospice.

In addition to the light dedications, which will include a special outdoor display in the grounds of the hospice, the Light up a Life event will also incorporate a virtual remembrance service, taking place in December and providing people with a further opportunity to reflect and remember someone special.

In previous years, St John’s were able to hold a sequence of events and services as part of their Light up a Life campaign; however, in light of the coronavirus pandemic and subsequent local restrictions, the hospice has relied on the support of a local sponsor to ensure the continued success of the fundraiser in 2020.

Located in Claughton, SWS UK is a manufacturer of garage doors and physical security products and has welcomed the honour of being the first company to support the event.

Employing more than 100 people, with most living in the local area, the management team at SWS UK is aware of St John’s reputation for compassion and care, and is delighted to be able to support the hospice in giving something back to the community which is home to company’s employees and their families.

Commenting on their support, SWS UK’s commercial director Martin Fletcher said: "St John’s Hospice is a charity that has touched the lives of many, including some of our own employees, so we are delighted to be the sponsor behind this year’s Light up a Life campaign.

"With the coronavirus pandemic highlighting the amazing work tirelessly carried out by the care sector, we are honoured to have been given the opportunity to show our appreciation to the area's much-loved and highly regarded St John’s Hospice.

"Light up A Life offers a poignant way for the bereaved to remember their loved ones, whilst also supporting St John’s in continuing their vital work for the community. SWS UK are proud to be associated with the campaign and we are looking forward to seeing it unfold."

For further information on the event or to make a donation, go online