In pictures: Hundreds gather on Felixstowe seafront for Suffolk Remembers 2024 to raise funds for St Elizabeth Hospice

Hundreds gathered along Felixstowe seafront to remember lost loved ones yesterday.

St Elizabeth Hospice marks its Suffolk Remembers event every year on Suffolk Day, June 21.

As the sun fell on the Suffolk coast for this year’s event, attendees were given a somber chance for reflection and treated to performances from Ipswich singer Roma Manteiga-Nicholson, the choir Pop Chorus, and Martlesham Brass.

Keeping with tradition, the words ‘Suffolk Remembers’ were illuminated along the coastline.

This provided a place for people to leave a candle for lost loved ones, with each letter sponsored by a Suffolk business.

Catherine Sheppard, individual giving manager at St Elizabeth Hospice, thanked everyone who attended the event as well as the sponsors and volunteers who made the evening possible.

“Suffolk Remembers is truly a special evening, which provides a poignant close to Suffolk Day, as we remember and celebrate the lives of loved ones who brightened up our lives and made Suffolk the county we know and love,” she said.

This was the eighth annual Suffolk Remembers event.

Donations raised go towards St Elizabeth Hospice and its work supporting thousands with life-changing illnesses across East Suffolk, Great Yarmouth and Waveney.

Cllr David Rowe, mayor of Felixstowe, joined the crowds in marking the passing of those close to him.

“We have had a great Suffolk Day here in Felixstowe,” he said.

“We began the day with an event for care homes and local schools this morning, before then ending Suffolk Day with Suffolk Remembers, an event which really shows Suffolk as its best, with the stunning backdrop of Felixstowe seafront providing the perfect setting.”

The candles, which could be placed on behalf of anyone, regardless of whether they were under the care of the hospice charity, will remain on display until 1pm on Monday.

Each dedication also included a photo and a message to the loved one, which were also included in an online gallery.

Colin Dixon, head of funeral services for the East of England Co-Op, who provided refreshments, said he and his team were truly proud to be part of such a special event.

He added: “It is a privilege to offer comfort and reassurance to local families, sharing a cup of tea as we overlook the beautiful Felixstowe coastline.

“Suffolk Remembers is a unique event, and we are honoured to support it year after year in aid of such an amazing charity.”