HUNDREDS of people gathered by Bournemouth Pier on Friday night to remember loved ones and raise the profile of a local charity.
The annual ‘Light Up the Prom’ event is a major fundraiser for Macmillan Caring Locally, which supports the palliative care unit at Christchurch Hospital, as well as for the Bournemouth Hospital Charity.
This year’s event saw special recognition for the late John Wetton, frontman of 1980s super-group Asia, whose name was displayed in fireworks on the pier during the display.
This was a thank you to his family, who raised more than £3,500 for the charity.
Macmillan appeal director Lin Sharp said: “We are overwhelmed by the incredible support from John’s fans.
“Light Up the Prom is a wonderful memorial event and John’s name in lights is a fitting tribute to this incredibly talented man.”
The event saw families gather with lights and glow sticks to watch a performance by the Bournemouth Male Voice Choir and enjoy refreshments before a two-minutes silence to remember those lost to terminal illness.
It was originally due to take place on October 20 but was postponed due to Storm Brian.
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules here