Sponsor a Guiding Lights star, celebrate a life and support local hospice care

Losing someone close is heartbreaking, yet the light they brought to our lives can live with us forever. St Luke’s is offering those whose loved one has died a touching way to remember that person who still shines brightly in their heart.

By sponsoring a star on Supernova, the unique in-memory lighthouse sculpture that’s part of this summer’s Guiding Lights trail, supporters will create a lasting tribute to someone special to them while supporting St Luke’s expert care and comfort for local families going through the toughest of times.

The star tributes on the lighthouse ‘Supernova’ 

Be a part of the Guiding Lights Trail

The family-friendly Guiding Lights trail and auction, which runs from 6 July to 13 September, is set to transform Plymouth into a colourful, artistic promenade, inviting residents and visitors alike to explore the city and discover the collection of 41 striking, 2.4-metre tall lighthouse sculptures. Featuring individual designs by accomplished artists, many of the sculptures are sponsored by big-hearted local businesses and organisations.

Behind every lighthouse on the trail lies a deeper message about guidance, hope and support, which sit at the very heart of St Luke’s. The charity’s services extend far beyond medical care. The hospice offers emotional, practical and spiritual support for patients and their families, helping people make the most of precious time together while navigating some of life’s most challenging moments.

Among Guiding Lights’ stunning sculptures will be Supernova, the lighthouse lovingly painted by St Luke’s staff and volunteers. Adorned with dedicated stars bearing the names of loved ones who are no longer with us, Supernova will stand as a powerful symbol of remembrance and enduring love.

Members of the public are invited to dedicate a star on Supernova in memory of a loved one, whether or not that person was a patient of St Luke’s, and become part of this very special community-wide tribute.

‘Supernova’ the lighthouse

A meaningful way to pay a lasting tribute

St Luke’s Event Manager Georgina Dyke said: “Grief can often feel like a lonely journey, but Supernova aims to remind people that they are not alone. Each dedicated star represents a life that touched others in a meaningful way, creating a collective tribute filled with love, remembrance and hope.

“Dedicating a star on Supernova is a meaningful way to pay a lasting tribute to someone who brought light to your life and whose memory will never be forgotten.”

Supernova will be on display at Mountbatten during the summer trail before taking up permanent residence in the peaceful, uplifting grounds surrounding St Luke’s specialist unit at Turnchapel.

The other 40 lighthouses will be sold at auction on 1 October, raising funds to help the hospice continue providing its specialist services, which come free of charge to local families.

To sponsor a Supernova star in memory of your loved one, please click here by Sunday 28 June latest.

FAQs

How much is it to sponsor a star?

It costs £50 to dedicate a large star or £25 to dedicate a medium star.

How do I sponsor a star on the Supernova lighthouse?

Click here to find out more about sponsoring a star.

Where can I see the lighthouse in person?

Our Artist Studio in Armada Centre is open every Wednesday in June to come and have a closer look at the Supernova lighthouse before the trail begins. Then from 6 July Supernova will be on display at Mountbatten during the summer trail before taking up permanent residence in the peaceful, uplifting grounds surrounding St Luke’s specialist unit at Turnchapel.

When does the Guiding Lights Art Trail start?

The art trail begins on Monday 6 July 2026 and runs until 13 September 2026.

Where can I find out more about the Guiding Lights Art Trail?

You can find out more about the trail on the Guiding Lights website. 

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Sponsor a Guiding Lights star, celebrate a life and support local hospice care

Losing someone close is heartbreaking, yet the light they brought to our lives can live with us forever. St Luke’s is offering those whose loved one has died a touching way to remember that person who still shines brightly in their heart.