Wakefield to hold minute's silence to remember those lost to Covid

Wakefield will fall silent tomorrow as it supports Marie Curie's national day of reflection.

Wakefield Council is asking residents to take part in a minute's silence at 12noon, led by Mayor of the district, Coun Charles Keith, in memory of those who have passed away due to Covid and show support to those who are grieving.

Since the first lockdown began on March 23, 2020, 850 people in the Wakefield District have passed away because of the virus.

The council wants to commemorate this tragic loss of life by coming together, as a district, to remember them.

The day of reflection will give residents the chance to reflect on their own experiences, as well as remembering those who have lost their lives.

In memory of those who have passed away because of the virus, Coun Denise Jeffery and Coun Jack Hemmingway will be planting a large commemorative tree with a commemorative plaque next to County Hall.

As a mark of respect, the Union flag will be lowered to half-mast at the district’s town halls and at County Hall.

Schools across the district can to take part in the day by drawing or crafting flowers as a symbol of hope, writing poetry, creating a time capsule of 2020 or planting memorial flowers.

Coun Jeffery, Leader of Wakefield Council, said: “It has been a year that nobody expected and one that has been incredibly difficult for many. We want to let our residents know that they are not alone, we are all in this together, and we aim to provide as much support as possible throughout the pandemic - and beyond.

"We feel that it is important that we come together to reflect on the past year, to show support to those who have sadly lost family and friends, and look ahead to a brighter tomorrow.”

Saint Helen's Church, Hemsworth, will also be open from 9am for private prayer, remembrance and reflection as part of the National Day of Reflection.

At midday, the church will observe a minute's silence, before celebrating a requiem mass for all those who have died during the pandemic.

Father Robert Hart, the rector at the church, said: "We have been open throughout the pandemic, apart from the first lockdown when we were not allowed.

"We're trying to be available for people who are grieving and haven't been able to do that properly over the last year."