As the anniversary of the first lockdown announcement approaches, we remember all those who have passed away, have suffered, and are still suffering from coronavirus (COVID-19).
The Leader of Bolton Council, Cllr David Greenhalgh, reflects upon the past year of the pandemic and the effect upon local people: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=C-qp48cLvO8
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, with photos, videos, on social media please use #Boltonremembers and #TeamBolton.
Bolton Town Hall will be lit up in remembrance on Tuesday 23 March, with flags flying at half mast. Flags at the Royal Bolton Hospital will also be flying at half mast.
Partners helping to keep people safe are also starting a conversation about a permanent memorial where people can share memories and asking people for their thoughts. If you have any initial ideas, please let us know through social media by using #Boltonremembers #TeamBolton
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.
“One of the ideas I’ve discussed and would like to see is somewhere people can come along to share memories and reflect. It would be peaceful, beautiful and colourful, a place people can stop and think but also one where they can laugh. A garden to celebrate the Bolton Family.”
Bolton Hospice CEO Leigh Vallance added, "Today all of us at Bolton Hospice will be taking time to reflect on the challenges of the past year and our thoughts will be with those families who have lost loved ones and continue to face hardships due to the covid pandemic. Together, as a strong community, we will get through this by pulling together, which is what Bolton has done since day one and what we’ll continue to do until we come out the other side.”
Dr Wirin Bhatiani, chairman of Bolton Clinical Commissioning Group, said: “Bolton’s vaccination programme is bringing hope to tens of thousands of people in our borough after what has been a tremendously challenging 12 months.
“However, we must never forget the devastating toll this virus has taken on our communities and the people who have died through coronavirus. On this anniversary, we remember them; their families, friends and loved ones are in our thoughts.
“It is also a chance to thank all our health and care staff and volunteers who have continued to look after our most vulnerable residents, often in very demanding circumstances.”
Helen Tomlinson, Interim Chief Executive at Bolton CVS added: “The past year has been one of sacrifice, loss and hardship and our thoughts go out to all those who have suffered. With tragedy comes triumph; the strength and resilience of Bolton’s communities, dedication and commitment from voluntary sector leaders and the spirit and humanity of the thousands of volunteers who have stepped forward to support those most in need have been rays of light on dark days. We will continue to fight this virus and build for a stronger and brighter future, together.”
Fiona Noden, Chief Executive of Bolton NHS Foundation Trust said:
“As we all join together to reflect on the past 12 months, I remain extraordinarily humbled by the efforts our staff continue to go to in caring for our patients. I don’t think anyone thought we would remain in this position a year down the line. The way they continue to respond to the pressures of caring for COVID in the community, whilst each and every one of us experiences the pressures of COVID as individuals, amazes me.
“I would like to thank the people of Bolton for all they have done to help our staff do their job, staying home and following the guidance so that the spread of the virus in our community reduces. We’ll all be gathering to reflect and clap for them, as they did so many times for us, to thank #TeamBolton from the NHS.”