North Tyneside Remembers Covid Victims With Day of Reflection Events

Hey, so North Tyneside had a Covid Day of Reflection. It marked five years since Covid started in the UK. People gathered at Covid memorial sites in the area. They remembered those who died during the pandemic and thought about Covid’s lasting effect on their town.

The day honored people and groups who worked hard during the pandemic. They tried to stop the virus from spreading quickly, and many treated the sick. Others aided vulnerable people like the elderly.

The main event was at Silverlink Biodiversity Park, in Cobalt Business Park. Dame Norma Redfearn gave a speech and laid flowers at the park. Other council members laid flowers at four other sites, letting locals visit a memorial near them.

They gave out seeded cards at each site. People could plant them at home or in a meaningful place. The memorial sites are for remembering loved ones lost and allowing reflection on the community’s support.

The sites have a compass theme, with each design reflecting its local community. The historic Wagon Way network connects them all.

The memorial at Killingworth Lakeside Park is George Stephenson-themed. Redburn Dene Park’s (North Shields) theme is fishing, while Souter Park (Whitley Bay) focuses on lighthouses. Wallsend Hall grounds highlight shipbuilding, and Silverlink has a sun design, complementing the park’s sundial sculpture.

Dame Norma Redfearn said North Tyneside changed forever, stating the pandemic’s impact still exists. She thinks it’s important to pause and remember those lost, praising the community’s incredible support. Frontline workers, nurses, volunteers, and everyone played a role in fighting the virus.