Ref. 28152-16THE Prospect Hospice Christmas lights switch-on was watched by about 500 people.

Supporters have sponsored nearly 700 of the 1,000 lights on the 17-foot tree as part of a record-breaking Light a Life appeal, with each light representing the life of a loved one.

The appeal, in its fifth year, raised about £6,500 for the Wroughton hospice, which provides care for terminally ill patients.

Anyone sponsoring a light on the tree will have the name of their loved one recorded in the Light a Life celebration book.

The book is kept in the Prospect Hospice chapel, where it can be viewed throughout the year.

Supporters gathered in a heated marquee at the front of the hospice for a Christmas celebration service.

The Faringdon Singers performed and the crowd sang carols accompanied by the Wroughton Silver Band.

Earlier in the day the hospice had raised another £1,000 with a Christmas bazaar which sold crafts, gifts and decorations.

Gillian Richardson, in her final event as community fundraiser for the hospice before she hands the reins to Maggie Gill, said she was delighted at the public response to the appeal, which beat last year's record.

"It was fantastic to see lots of faces we knew there and lots of new people come along especially for the service," she said.

"Without the community we wouldn't be able to provide the service we provide."