A not for profit charity and provider of residential and care homes has thrown its weight behind this weekend’s ‘Candles on the Lake’ event in Poole Park.

Organised by Lewis-Manning Hospice Care, the community event is an opportunity to celebrate and remember loved ones.

It takes place on Saturday, October 16, at The Ark.

Care South has bought 100 tea light candles for the charity event.

Simon Bird, CEO, said: “As a charity partner of Lewis-Manning Hospice Care we are delighted to be supporting this really worthwhile event.

“We’ve invited our care home staff to come along and join us for this evening of reflection and remembrance.

“We are looking forward to sending out some lights of hope in these difficult times and remembering not just lost ones but those who are still with us.

Nicki Cluley, Corporate Parnership Fundraiser. said, “We are extremely grateful for the support, generosity and commitment shown by Care South.

“The display of candles will create a magical display of floating lights on the lake.

“There will also be music from local musicians and a reflective reading to remember and celebrate loved ones.

“The event is free for all to join, so tell your friends, neighbours, colleagues, and family to come along to this wonderful evening.

“This poignant and special event will start with a reflective walk around the boating lake, followed by music from local choirs and a short reading.

“Donations will be used to fund our Bereavement and Family Support as well as other vital services, allowing us to give invaluable support to patients and their families from diagnosis of a life-limiting condition, through to end of life and bereavement.”

“We are asking people to make a suggested donation of £5 per candle and people can buy as many as they like!

“If three people donated this amount it could cover the cost of a one-hour telephone call or visit, providing support to a grieving family.

“All candles will be floated safely onto the lake as not to affect plants and wildlife in the area.

“All of the flameless candles will be collected at the end of the evening by our dedicated team of staff and volunteers to ensure there is no litter.

“The candles will also be reused for subsequent years.”

To find out more about this free event and to get involved, please visit: lewis-manning.org.uk/candles-on-the-lake/