Anniversaries are usually a time to reflect on the events of the past 12 months. As the borough commemorates one year since the outbreak started locally, the council pays tribute to those who sadly lost their lives to Covid-19.
In paying tribute, Leader of the Council, Cllr David Greenhalgh said: “This is a time to remember the lives tragically lost in Bolton. Families who have lost loved ones and those suffering the effects of long covid have been by far impacted the most and our thoughts are with them.
“To those who are suffering hardship and the loss of livelihoods, we, The Bolton Family, must be there to support as best we can, stay hopeful for the future and continue to pull together to fight the virus.
“I want to thank all those who have gone above and beyond this past year – our healthcare staff, emergency services, essential workers and teachers.
“And finally thank-you to our residents and those many hundreds of volunteers who have looked out for their elderly and vulnerable neighbours and followed the guidelines to help protect each other.
“We are looking forward to a brighter future.”
During this time of reflection about the past year there are several opportunities for us all to share memories of loved ones we have lost or are still suffering, share our thoughts about recovering from the virus, and our hopes for the future.
Residents are invited to join us in remembrance of lives lost by lighting a candle on March 23.
There is an online Greater Manchester book of condolence available to sign at https://gmremembers.org.uk/. You can also follow #GMRemembers on social media.
Physical books of condolences will be made available in local buildings once lockdown restrictions are lifted.
And if you are sharing memories on social media please use #Boltonremembers and #TeamBolton.