Lewis-Manning Hospice Care’s popular annual event, Candles on the Lake, made its return to Poole Park recently.

More than 3,000 members of the local community gathered earlier this month for an evening of remembrance and reflection.

The event gave participants the chance to dedicate a message on a candle in memory of a loved one, before launching them together across the small lake near The Ark.

They were accompanied by moving musical performances from The Boscombe Salvation Army Band and The Funky Little Choir.

Photo: Greg McKinney

It proved to be a touching moment for many attendees.

“I’ve recently lost two people close to me,” said one.

“This event has made me realise that I need to feel my grief now, and this is just such a beautiful opportunity to start that journey.

“Watching the candles float across the lake is stunning and very thought-provoking.”

Anna DuRose, event fundraiser for Lewis-Manning Hospice Care, gave thanks to the evening’s sponsors.

“The hospice is very grateful for the generous support of our headline sponsor, Care South, whose residents from the newly opened Marjorie House, named in honour of the hospice’s founder, were able to join in the evening’s commemorative ceremony.

“They brought candles with personal messages from residents in all Care South homes, a meaningful gesture that added to the evening’s heartfelt tributes.

“Our sincere thanks also extend to Rockley Water Sports, who supplied the boards on which the candles floated, along with a team of dedicated volunteers to carefully place each candle on the lake.

“Without their incredible support, we simply could not have run this event.

“Additional gratitude goes to event partners including Ives and Shand Funeral Service, Abbas Cabins, Avon Material Supplies, Capitol Barriers, Abacus Vehicle Hire, South Coast Mini Marquees, One Nine 58 Event Coffee Van, and Hot Radio, as well as the 50-plus volunteers and staff who ensured a safe, meaningful and memorable experience for all attendees.”

Photo: Paul Collins

The evening also featured heartfelt words from Lewis-Manning’s Jo Sharkey and trustee Ian Marshall.

Funds raised will directly benefit the charity’s bereavement and family support services, which provide essential support for individuals and families navigating loss.

Other Candles events coming up include Candles on the Green at Wimborne Minster on 16 November and Candles at the Priory at Christchurch Priory on 26 November.

Those wishing to take part are urged to pre-order a candle at lewis-manning.org.uk/candles

Candles will also be available to purchase on the evening of the event.