National Memorial Arboretum woodland planned for Covid victims
A new woodland in memory of those who died in service during the pandemic is planned for the National Memorial Arboretum in Staffordshire.
The woodland is being planned in partnership with The National Forest on former quarry land gifted by Tarmac.
A spokesman for the National Memorial Arboretum, at Alrewas, said: "Exactly a year ago today, we sadly closed our doors to visitors as the UK entered its first lockdown as a result of the Covid-19 pandemic.
"We want to take a moment to reflect on the incredible service of the NHS and the nation’s key workers in supporting our communities, and to remember all those who have lost their lives to the virus.
"We would also like to thank everyone who has supported us throughout this very challenging year. Like so many other organisations, we had to adapt to a new way of working. Our plans to commemorate VE Day 75, Remembrance Sunday and Armed Forces Day had to be rapidly reworked into digital events and our team was challenged to ensure events such as Illuminated Arboretum took place in a safe environment.
"In August we were proud to work with the Royal British Legion, Ministry of Defence and the BBC to provide a safe environment for a national event to commemorate VJ Day 75.
"Every penny you spent parking your car, buying takeaway coffee or helping us fundraise went toward supporting our work as the nation’s year-round centre of Remembrance.
"At the moment, the arboretum is only open to local people (with a pre-booked ticket) but we are very much looking forward to being able to welcome back many more of you to explore the arboretum as we celebrate the 20th anniversary of our official opening.
"We are also developing plans to honour those who died in service during the pandemic; in partnership with The National Forest we are exploring a new memorial woodland on former quarry land gifted by Tarmac.
"In the words of Captain Sir Tom Moore, ‘tomorrow will be a good day’."
