“Light Up a Life gives people a simple and meaningful way to remember someone special'

People across north Derbyshire are invited to dedicate a star in memory of someone important to them as part of Ashgate Hospice’s annual Light up a Life appeal.

The Chesterfield hospice’s virtual night sky will once again shine with stars dedicated by suppporters in return for a suggested donation of £25. Each dedication helps Ashgate provide palliative and end of life care to local people living with a life-limiting illness, as well as support for their nearest and dearest.

Everyone who dedicates a star will receive an invitation to Ashgate’s annual Light Up a Life ceremony on Sunday, December 6 to remember those who have died.

Last year, more than 1,270 stars were dedicated, raising more than £59,000 for the hospice.

Among those who know the difference Ashgate’s support can make is 75-year-old Marguerite Roberts, whose husband Peter was cared for at home in Chesterfield by Ashgate’s community team before he died in April 2026.

Peter was living with prostate cancer and was determined to remain at home. As his health deteriorated, Ashgate’s community team supported both Peter and Marguerite, helping her to care for him and manage his symptoms and medication.

“They were just so kind, and they got us laughing,” said Marguerite. “They weren’t solemn visits. They were like a friend calling. It wasn’t sterile and medical. Peter appreciated their humour, and so did I.”

For Marguerite, knowing she could pick up the phone when things became difficult was just as important. “If I was crying, they knew. They were there for me as well as Peter,” she said.

The support meant Peter was able to stay at home. “He wanted to be at home, and I promised him he could stay at home,” said Marguerite. “I couldn’t have done it without Ashgate. They helped me to keep his wish.”

Marguerite and Peter had known each other since childhood before reconnecting later in life. They married on Valentine’s Day in 2025. “He was my best friend, my soulmate and my husband,” said Marguerite.

Charlotte Butterworth, head of fundraising at Ashgate Hospice, said Light Up a Life was an opportunity for people to remember someone important while helping the hospice support families.

“Christmas can be a particularly important time to remember someone who has died and to think about the memories and moments that mean so much,” she said.

“Light Up a Life gives people a simple and meaningful way to remember someone special, while also helping Ashgate continue to be there for local people living with a life-limiting illness and the people important to them.

“Every star dedicated makes a difference. The money raised helps us provide specialist care and support across North Derbyshire, whether that’s in someone’s own home, in the community or at the hospice.”

Ashgate needs to raise £11 million each year to provide its specialist care and support, with around a third of its funding coming from the NHS.

To dedicate a star in memory of someone special, visit www.ashgatehospice.org.uk/light-up-a-life