SALISBURY Cathedral will be illuminating its spire as a "beacon of hope".

It will be joining with other cathedrals across the country to illuminate the sky from All Saint’s Eve (Saturday, October 31) until All Souls’ Day (Monday, November 2), with intersecting light beams rising from the cathedral roof to form a pyramid around the famous landmark.

The Light of Hope project was devised by light artist Peter Walker and is supported by Arts Council England.

The Cathedral is also marking All Soul’s Day (November 2) with an afternoon devoted to prayer. Between 2pm and 4pm, anyone who would like the opportunity to pause, reflect and light a candle for a loved one is welcome to visit.

All Souls’ Day is traditionally a day when Christians come together to remember and give thanks for those whose love and friendship they have treasured, but also to remind themselves that they are not alone in their grief.

There will also be a chance to dedicate a flower in memory of those who have died, which will be become part of an arrangement that will remain in place during the special All Souls’ Eucharist that follows at 5.30pm.

During the service the Cathedral Choir will sing the Faure Requiem and the names of loved ones will be read out as part of the prayers.

The Reverend Anna Macham, Salisbury Cathedral’s Canon Precentor said: “This year we remember all who have died, whether as a result of the Covid-19 pandemic, or of another cause. All Souls’ Day is a day to help us remember: not just to recall our loss and sorrow, but also to be thankful for everything good that those we have loved brought into our lives and all that they have given to others, and to commit them to God’s care and safe keeping.”

The Very Revd Nicholas Papadopulos, Dean of Salisbury added: “The music and liturgy of All Souls are solemn, reflective, and full of hope, because they offer an assurance of the love and grace of God. I am thankful that despite the pandemic we are still open and, whilst numbers for worship are limited, we are now able to live stream our services for all to share. We hope that as many people as possible are able to join us safely on Monday afternoon to give thanks for the lives of those we love, past and present.”

Those wishing to pray or reflect during the afternoon should enter the Cathedral via the main visitor entrance on the West Front.

Masks must be worn when inside the cathedral and people should remain in their household or support groups, socially distancing from others in line with the government Rule of Six regulations. Hand sanitiser will be provided on entry.

The cathedral says advanced booking is essential, which can be done through its website or by calling 01722 512156.