Hundreds at lantern parade to remember loved ones

More than 200 people attended the lantern parade in Shipley

More than 200 people have gathered in a park to mark Bradford's first ever Festival of the Dead.

The event, organised by the University of Bradford, was designed to give people a chance to remember loved ones through light, music and shared memories.

Following a lantern parade and a space for remembrance, the evening event in Northcliffe Park, Shipley, ended with music from the Peace Artistes.

The university said Sunday's festival had been "unique, magical and poignant".

People who attended were encouraged to bring a lantern or candle, or an object to help them remember a loved one and their memories of those who have died.

Many of the lanterns were created during workshops held across the area ahead of the parade.

The two-month Festival of the Dead, which culminated on Sunday's, was part of the university's own programme of activities, events and research contributing to Bradford's year as the UK's City of Culture.

It was organised in collaboration with Cecil Green Arts, Bradford Death Cafe and Kynd.

People were encouraged to bring lanterns, candles and mementoes to remember their loved ones

Prof Karina Croucher, from the university, said it had been "moving" to see so many people participate in the parade.

"More than 200 people joined us, many bringing lanterns they had made, to remember and celebrate those who have gone before us, creating a space and place for the dead in our lives.

"Words used by our participants to describe the event were fun, moving, memorable, unique, magical, communal, and poignant."

The university said the festival was designed to bring together communities, to encourage creativity, and provide people with a safe space to talk about important topics like grief and remembrance.

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