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Councillors hold candle lit vigil to commemorate 280 deaths from Covid-19 in Gedling

Date Posted: 3:53 PM on Sat, 13 February 2021 Councillors stood next to candles as part of a vigil

Gedling Borough Council has marked the tragic loss of 280 of its residents who have died from Covid-19, by creating a heart-shaped candle vigil in their memories.

The Mayor of Gedling alongside the Leader and Deputy Leader of the Council laid 280 candles to remember the 280 people who have lost their lives thus far in Gedling from Covid-19.

aThe candles were lit on Valentine’s weekend and laid out at the Civic Centre in the shape of a heart around the council’s crest to remember the husbands, wives, dads, mums, brothers, sisters, partners and loved ones who have died locally since the start of the pandemic.

Plans are also being put in place for a memorial stone to be placed in the centre of Arnold so people can pay their respects. The memorial will also be in recognition of the service and sacrifice of our NHS staff, care workers and all key workers who have been there for us during the pandemic.

Leader of Gedling Borough Council, Councillor John Clarke, Deputy Leader , Councillor Michael Payne and the Mayor of Gedling, Councillor Sandra Barnes said in a joint statement:

“This is a tragic milestone for the people of Gedling. We have lost far too many people, far too soon and this is our way of letting their families know all those who have lost their lives in our borough are in our hearts, thoughts and prayers. Each and every one of those 280 people who have lost their lives will have families who, this Valentine’s weekend, will not be able to tell their husband, wife, father, mother, brother, sister or partner how much they are loved and that is truly heartbreaking.

Sadly, we know that the number of deaths will likely continue to rise locally before this pandemic ends. We must all continue to do our bit by following the guidelines and rules to protect our loved ones and to stay safe and well.

Our deepest sympathies and condolences to all families who have lost a loved one. Let us keep those we have lost in our hearts.”