Littlehampton to mark National Day of Reflection one year on from first coronavirus lockdown

The deserted high street during the first lockdown last year

The nation is due to fall silent on Tuesday (March 23), to remember friends and relatives who have died during the pandemic.

The National Day of Reflection is organised by the charity Marie Curie to mark a year since the first lockdown, and is backed by government.

The public is asked to observe a minute’s silence at midday, and to shine a light on their doorsteps at 8pm.

Local organisations are backing the movement and asking residents to remember those who have died in the last year.

The chairman of Arun District Council, councillor Amanda Worne, is also inviting residents to join her in a ‘virtual’ time of reflection at 2pm.

She said: “I would really love to hear from anyone who would like to be part of this reflection and wants to share their experiences.

“The idea is to spend time sharing experiences from the past year and remembering those we have lost and thanking those who have offered support.

“Please get in touch with me via email.

“It would be lovely to hear from you.”

The event begins at 2pm tomorrow (Tuesday, March 23) and will feature guest speakers, Revd Tom Robson, Father Mark Williams, Nigel Lynn and Cllr Dr Walsh and music by Cllr Inna Irskine.

Email [email protected] to find out more to get involved.

A West Sussex County Council spokesman said: “Everyone is invited to pause to reflect during a minute’s silence at midday and to come together later that evening outside our homes with a light and show support to people grieving the death of a loved one.”

Matthew Reed, chief executive of Marie Curie, said: “We need to take a moment to mark the huge amount of loss we’ve seen in the past 12 months and show support for everyone who has been bereaved – be that from　 Covid 　or any other cause.

“Many people are in shock, confused, upset, angry and unable to process what has happened.

“But there is an overwhelming need to come together, to remember, to grieve, to celebrate.

“On March 23, we invite everyone join together to hold a minute’s silence at 12 noon, take a moment to reach out to someone they know is grieving, and shine a light at 8pm.”

To find out more about the National Day of reflection, Visit: www.mariecurie.org.uk/get-involved/day-of-reflection