Memorial event to be held on the sea at sunset

People are lifting a raft into the waves. The raft holds a sculpture in the shape of a wave which is covered in pink gerbera flowers. There is a group of make and female rowers holding the raft and others in s boat holding the oars aloft. There are yachts sailing on the horizon.Image source, North Devon Hospice
Image caption,

The raft is due to be rowed in to the sea at 19:30

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People who have lost friends and family members are set to gather for a memorial event on Sunday evening.

Floating Bye organised by the North Devon Hospice offers the opportunity for the community to place flowers and messages on a raft which is towed into the sea as the sun sets.

Organisers said the event on Instow beach was due to begin at 18:15 BST, with the raft set to float at about 19.30.

A spokesperson for the hospice said the event created "a deeply moving and symbolic farewell" and was for "absolutely everybody who has lost someone".

People taking part will be given a pink gerbera flower and a card on which a message to the person who has died can be written.

These flowers will be placed onto a bamboo and wicker raft which rowers will tow out to sea as the sun goes down.

Debbie Lack from Barnstaple said she would be taking part.

She said: "I've been attending Floating Bye for around five years now and it's become such an important part of how I remember those I've lost."

North Devon Hospice cares for people and families facing the impact of cancer and other life-limiting illnesses.

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