There are hundreds of ways to show someone you care at Christmas. And the North London Hospice this week launched its appeal for you to light up a loved one's life and raise funds for its vital work.

The Woodside Avenue hospice is encouraging residents to sponsor a light on its horse chestnut tree for its annual Light up a Life appeal. Lights can express happiness or sadness and, for a minimum donation of £5, sponsors will be sent a dedication certificate to keep or pass onto the person the light is for.

The appeal has raised more than £40,000 over the last two years with all profits going to the hospice's work with people who suffer life-threatening illnesses.

Theresa Bowman, chief fundraiser, said last year's total of £22,000 had almost been reached already.

"We do have bereaved families that have been connected with the hospice who want a mark of remembrance for their loved ones who have passed away," she said.

"But people who are sponsoring do not have to have any connection to the hospice. It is just a really nice thing to do at this time of the year."

The tree lighting ceremony takes place at the hospice on November 25 at 5pm with anyone sponsoring a light welcome.

Lights will then be illuminated between 4.30pm and 8.30pm every evening for a month. To sponsor a light call the hospice on 020 8446 2288 or fill in the form opposite.

November 14, 2001 17:06