Remembering lost loved ones a year after first Covid lockdown

Today (Tuesday) marks exactly a year since the Melton borough and the rest of the nation was sent into the first coronavirus lockdown.
A sign on Burton Road bridge flagging up a Covid-19 test site in Melton EMN-210323-104937001A sign on Burton Road bridge flagging up a Covid-19 test site in Melton EMN-210323-104937001
A sign on Burton Road bridge flagging up a Covid-19 test site in Melton EMN-210323-104937001

There have been almost 80,000 cases reported in Leicester, Leicestershire and Rutland and 2,380 residents have died with Covid, 110 of them in the Melton borough.

Flags on the council offices on Parkside are flying at half-mast in recognition of those who have suffered and the building will be lit blue this evening in honour of NHS and care workers and the many volunteers who have supported residents over the last 12 months.

A minute’s silence will be held today acros the country at noon, which residents are invited to observe

Local leaders have today shared a video message of remembrance for those who have lost their lives to the virus and to thank everyone who has played their part in the fight against it.

Lord-Lieutenant of Leicestershire, Mike Kapur, said: “It has been a long, hard 12 months.

“Every one of us has done our bit to fight this disease - thank you all.

“A year on, like many others, I have mixed feelings.

“I am reflecting on lives lost and families grieving, as well as the kindness and hope in our communities.”

Andy Williams, chief executive of the local NHS Clinical Commissioning Groups, added: “Words cannot really describe the efforts of the health workforce, and volunteers, in facing this pandemic.

“I’m reflecting on lives lost, and all those lives which have been changed this year.

“I also want to thank those who’ve helped to vaccinate huge numbers of people so far across the city, county and Rutland.

“Every vaccine given is a symbol of hope and recovery.

“It’s not over yet – but we can look to the future now.”

Covid lead for Leicestershire Police, Assistant Chief Constable, Kerry Smith, said: “I would like to thank everybody who has helped keep communities safe, followed the rules, and prevented the spread of the virus in what has been an extremely challenging and tough year for us all personally and professionally.”

And county council leader, Nick Rushton, commented: “Life was turned on its head last March.

“The tremendous efforts of all key workers - particularly in health, care, police, schools, as well as supermarkets and logistics - have kept us going.

“I want to thank everyone who has worked day and night this year.”

Melton Team rector, Rev Kevin Ashby, will be holding an online service from 6pm this evening to remember all loved ones who have passed away over the last year, including those not linked to coronavirus.

Go to www.melton.leicester.anglican.org to follow a live stream of the service.

Visit www.youtu.be/NrqKEs3Hrtc to watch the video message of remembrance from local leaders.