Hundreds of people from across Suffolk gathered on Felixstowe seafront, alongside the St Elizabeth Hospice team, to mark the charity's annual Suffolk Remembers event which once again brought Suffolk Day to a close on 21st June.

Taking place from 9pm-10pm, as the sun went down on the Suffolk coast, this year's event saw live performances from Ipswich singer, Roma Manteiga-Nicholson, Pop Chorus choir and Martlesham Brass as well as a number of poetry readings.

As is tradition, the words 'Suffolk Remembers' were illuminated along Felixstowe seafront on the longest day of the year, while hundreds of people gathered to remember their loved ones and leave a candle dedication in the memory of those no longer with us; with all the letters sponsored by local businesses in support of the hospice.

Catherine Sheppard, Supporter Campaigns Fundraiser at St Elizabeth Hospice, said: "It was a privilege to join once more with the local community to mark Suffolk Remembers and celebrate the lives of friends and family who brightened up our lives and made Suffolk the county we know and love.

"Thank you to everyone who attended and made a candle donation to the hospice. Also, thank you to all the volunteers and sponsors who made Suffolk Remembers possible."

Seamus Bennett, Felixstowe Town Mayor, said: "It has been a beautiful evening in Felixstowe. Suffolk Remembers highlights what a beautiful spot we have here, with the sea and the gardens providing a stunning backdrop for people to join together.

"I am so happy Felixstowe is the place which plays hosts to this all-Suffolk event. Suffolk Remembers is a special occasion which brings people from across the county, providing an opportunity to reflect on how lucky we are and how precious life is."

Sponsored by East of England Co-op Funeral Services, Suffolk Remembers is a free to attend event, but with each dedicated candle the hospice kindly asked supporters to consider making a donation to the independent Suffolk charity, which every year cares for more than 3,000 patients, living with a progressive or life-limiting illness, and their families throughout East Suffolk, Great Yarmouth and Waveney.

Each dedication also included a photo and a message to a loved one which was included in the Suffolk Remembers' online gallery, as well as the physical, battery candles displayed at the event. 

These candles will be displayed from Wednesday 21st June until 10am on Friday 23rd June 2023.

St Elizabeth Hospice is an independent Suffolk charity providing free services to improve life for people living with a progressive or life limiting illness throughout East Suffolk, Great Yarmouth and Waveney. 

Centered on an individual's needs, the hospice provides specialist support, whenever and wherever it is needed, whether at home, in the community or at the hospice.

To find out more about St Elizabeth Hospice call 01473 723600 or visit www.stelizabethhospice.org.uk.