WORCESTER people took part in a solemn candlelit procession through the city centre this weekend in an annual celebration of life and remembrance.

The city’s St Richard’s Hospice has been organising the Lights of Love event for the past 10 years, giving members of the community the opportunity to light a candle in memory of a loved one.

Friday evening’s event began with a ceremony in Worcester Cathedral of hymns and words of reflection. Those in attendance then made their way by candlelight across the city to St Andrew’s Spire on Deansway, accompanied by songs from St Richard’s Hospice choir.

A dedication was made by the Rev David Knight, chaplain of St Richard’s Hospice, before refreshments were enjoyed at the Guildhall.

Helen Griffee, communications manager for the hospice, said: “We are very grateful to the cathedral for their support again this year, and we’re grateful for everyone’s generosity with their donations.”

Over at Cripplegate Park the following day, a very different sort of event saw youngsters and their families finding out just how much fun keeping safe can be.

The road safety event on Saturday afternoon – organised by Worcester City Council as part of National Road Safety Week – brought youngsters together to learn all about keeping safe on the roads.

Children enjoyed safety quizzes, games and craft-making activities, heard safety talks from local police officers and were given special luminous rucksacks to make themselves more visible when walking or cycling at night.

The event was organised by the city council’s new play rangers, who said the public can expect more events in Worcester’s parks over the coming months.

“It went really well on Saturday,” said play ranger Fatima Kemili. “The children really enjoyed it, and the weather was kind to us.

“Next year we hope to have an even bigger event. We’re getting together a full programme of events in the parks for the new year which should be really exciting.”

Also on Saturday, a major new exhibition opened in the city celebrating the life of a Worcester music hall legend.

The Vesta Tilley exhibition at Worcester Museum and Art Gallery includes tribute books, original stage costumes and other items owned by the Worcester woman who went on to become one of the highest-paid music hall stars in the country in the early 20th century.

The exhibition runs until February 28 next year.