A GRANDFATHER who died from a brain tumour is among thousands who will be remembered during this year’s Wirral Hospice St John’s Light Up A Life switch-on.

Hospice supporter Sarah Marshall will dedicate one of the 10,000 lights to dad Ron Marshall during the ceremony, taking place in the hospice gardens during a ceremony on Sunday, December 7.

Ron died in March and was cared for by hospice staff.

Sarah Marshall said: "I will be lighting my own light to remember my lovely dad, and support future patients of Wirral Hospice.

"To me they are not lights; they are all stars that shine out across Wirral in memory of the people we love.

"When we first arrived my family were in a very fragile way. We had just been given the worst news possible and were heartbroken.

"From the moment we arrived at the Hospice the staff and volunteers were just amazing. We felt we were amongst friends.

"We quickly realised the Hospice cares for each patient and their family as individuals. Kind understanding words, hugs, endless hot drinks and someone to listen, are all part of everyday life.

"The Hospice continues to support my family. I attend regular counselling sessions which help me to deal with the many milestones that present themselves and my mum is now helping out with fundraising projects".

Sarah and her mum decided to hold a coffee morning recently, in Ron’s memory.

She continued: "The generosity of everyone towards the Hospice and Ron’s memory, was incredible and they were thrilled to have raised £2,400 for patient care."

This year's ceremony - now in its 19th year, starts at 7.30pm. Pressing the button during this year’s ceremony will be 11-year-old Seren and seven-year-old Estelle Saul, whose mother Susan lost a courageous battle against an aggressive form of cancer.

Each light will have been sponsored by Globe readers in memory of a loved one. The names of those remembered will feature in books of honour that will be on display in the hospice chapel.

Last year's campaign raised around £100,000 for hospice running costs. This year’s campaign has so far raised £25,000.

To support this year’s appeal, call 0151 343 0778 or visit www.wirralhospice.org/light