HUNDREDS of candles were floated down a river in York this week in memory of people who have died.

More than 700 candles were released down the River Ouse on Thursday as part of St Leonard's Hospice's Candle On The Ouse event - part of the facility's 30th anniversary.

Supporters watched from the riverbank and Lendal Bridge as volunteers from York City Rowing Club set the candles adrift, and each candle had been sponsored by people who donated to the hospice as a gift for someone special, or as a way of remembering a loved one.

Judy Wilson, events fundraiser at St Leonard’s Hospice, said: "This was a wonderful occasion, with a huge number of people watching the beautiful spectacle of the candles on the river.

"We are really grateful to YorkBoat for hosting York’s Civic Party, who came to support us. And thank you to everyone who joined in this, our first ‘Candles on the Ouse’ event."

The hospice is also hosting its Light up a Life Christmas trees in St Helen’s Square, York, Selby Abbey and in the Market Square in Easingwold this year.

For more information, phone 01904 777777 or go to stleonardshospice.org.uk