Stockport Council is marking one year since lockdown was first introduced due to the pandemic in a National Day of Reflection.
Organised by national charity Marie Curie, the Council will commemorate the day by remembering people who have lost lives and support those who have been bereaved.
Stockport Town Hall will be lit blue and green and fly the flag at half-mast. Stockport War Memorial Art Gallery will be lit up by rainbow lights in memory of those who have lost their lives. The day will also celebrate the positive community spirit shown in the borough during the past year, as well as shining a light on babies born on this day last year.
Cllr Amanda Peers, Cabinet Member for Inclusive Neighbourhoods, said:
The purpose of today [23 March] is to reflect on our collective loss, support those who’ve been bereaved, and hope for a brighter future. There’s plenty of support available if you are finding things difficult. I hope you will find some time to reflect on the last year in your own way today and here’s hoping for a much-improved year ahead. Many people have gone above and beyond to support their communities throughout this difficult time. I wish to thank everyone for everything they have done over the past year.”
Watch this short video of Cllr Amanda Peers reflecting on the year here.
The Council is calling on colleagues and residents to take a minute to reflect at 12 noon in the planned silence organised by Marie Curie for who have died during the pandemic; and take a moment to connect with someone who has been bereaved.
Marie Curie is also inviting residents to light up their doorsteps – by standing outside with a light (a candle, a torch, even your phone) at 8pm on 23 March to remember someone who’s died and show support to people going through a bereavement.
The Council’s online memorial book also offers the opportunity to pay tribute to loved ones who have died from Covid-19.