The sight of hundreds of twinkling lights floating across Talkin Tarn was a poignant moment, each representing a life sadly lost.

More than 2,000 people turned out to share in the special Light Up A Lake event last night, organised by the Eden Valley Hospice as part of its silver year anniversary celebrations.

It was a chance to remember loved ones in a unique way and mark the lives of all those cared for by the hospice over the past 25 years.

Organisers, who had originally expected a few hundred people to take part, were overwhelmed by the response.

In some cases several generations of families had turned out, all giving donations to the hospice in memory of loved ones.

It proved so popular that all of the 650 lanterns were snapped up and people queued for miles to place them on the water.

Each light was assembled on to a giant barge, which was then slowly floated out across the glistening tarn against a stunning backdrop of darkening skies, silhouetted trees and autumnal shadows.

A non-religious remembrance service was held on the edge of the tarn before the glimmering lights were sent on their way.

Sam Johnston, community fundraiser, started by thanking all those who ventured out to support the Light Up A Lake event.

"We are delightfully overwhelmed," he said. "This is the first event of its kind for us. Talkin Tarn has seen nothing like it before.

"We've had lots of feedback already from those saying this is a special place so we are aware of the relevance it holds."

Following a poem and act of remembrance the William Howard School choir gave a poignant and uplifting performance as the lights began their movement across the lake.

Paul O'Carroll, from Etterby, Carlisle, was among those there with his family. "It great to see so many people here to support the hospice. I think everyone has been affected by cancer in some way. My dad died of cancer so we are remembering him along with my mum, but also anyone whose past on. It's a nice thing to do," he said.