Dumfries couple share magical moment with family as Light Up A Life fundraiser gets under way

Dumfries couple Janet and Tom Henderson got to share a magical moment with family when they lit up a Christmas tree overlooking the town for the festive season.

This is the 22nd year that the couple have organised the annual Dumfries Light Up A Life fundraiser.

And the switch-on ceremony of 1,000 lights – each one representing a life remembered by the public at home and abroad – in the grounds of St Michael’s and South Church is the culmination of months of hard work.

Usually, there is a public ceremony and celebration with a band, carols and Janet’s famous Christmas cake. And the switch-on is performed by a local worthy.

However, the Covid-19 regulations put paid to that and, for the first time, it fell to Janet and Tom to perform the honours – and they were very worthy, indeed, having raised tens of thousands of pounds for local causes and the church over 22
years.

They were thrilled to share the occasion with family members in their bubble and some fellow members of St Michael’s and South Church.

It was also filmed for the church’s Facebook page so the congregation and those who sponsored one of the shining £5 bulbs could watch.

Light Up A Life organisers Janet and Tom Henderson. (Jim McEwan)

Janet said: “It was a very enjoyable experience. Having our family around us was amazing.

“It was quite different from our normal celebration. However, our beautiful tree with 1,000 lights on is so very meaningful to so many, including Tom and myself. Many thanks to all who donate to this worthwhile cause. God bless you all.”

Tom said: “We are delighted that the lights will once again be seen shining over the church and surrounding area during the Christmas period.

“We hope our lights will be just as meaningful this year as before and every light has a special memory for our loved ones gone before and those lost in the dreadful pandemic.

“We have raised more than £4,000 this year which will be shared between our church and local charities.”

The names of those who had a light sponsored in their memory are included in a book of remembrance which will be displayed in the church during 2021.

This year, £4,215 was spent on a new sound system at St Michael’s, helped by funding raised from the sale of a recipe book created by Janet and the lights.