Poole Quay was illuminated on Saturday evening as Lewis-Manning Hospice Care hosted its Candles on the Quay event.
In total, over 800 candles were displayed along the waterfront, each carrying a personal dedication in memory of loved ones. The Quay became a striking sea of light as families, friends, and supporters gathered to reflect and remember friends and family together.
As part of the event, children from Dorset-based schools decorated over 300 lanterns that arrived to the Quay on an illuminated boat at 7pm. Pupils from Canford Heath Infant School, Ad Astra Infant School, Heatherlands Primary School, and community groups from St James Church participated, with each lantern dedicated to a lost loved one or expressing a wish for someone receiving hospice care in Dorset.
Candles on the Quay was Lewis-Manning’s final flagship remembrance event of the year, following two other candles events at Wimborne and Swanage. Taking place at Poole Quay, the evening brought together choirs, volunteers, and supporters for a powerful display of community spirit.
The remembrance experience was free to the public, with funds raised via the public pre-ordering candles or donating on the night in support of Lewis-Manning’s free hospice services. The event raised enough money to fund over 400 hours of counselling and will enable Lewis-Manning to provide person-centred care at home and in local hubs, supporting over 1,200 people and their families each year across Dorset.