Covid-19 pandemic memorial trees planted in Beaumont Park, Hadleigh, and Green’s Meadow, Stowmarket

Memorial trees have been planted in two towns to mark five years since the start of the Covid-19 pandemic.

The cherry trees were planted at Green’s Meadow, in Stowmarket, and Beaumont Park, in Hadleigh, ahead of the Covid-19 Day of Reflection on Sunday.

Councillors from Babergh and Mid Suffolk District Council planted the trees to pay tribute to the resilience shown by communities, at the time.

Cllr Tim Weller, cabinet member for environment, culture and wellbeing at Mid Suffolk District Council said: “It seems almost strange now to look back on those early days of the pandemic and the fear and uncertainty it brought.

“We remember those who died, and people whose lives have been irrevocably changed as a result of Covid-19.

“But we also remember those who bravely stepped up despite the unknowns, setting aside their personal challenges to support their neighbours and communities through those difficult times.”

Council teams worked throughout the pandemic, keeping essential services going including waste collections and street cleaning.

They also supported the NHS by setting up and running vaccination centres, sharing public messaging and supporting foodbanks.

Cllr Laura Smith, Babergh District Council’s cabinet member for thriving communities, said: “Regardless of politics, every local council was doing its best to support and protect its residents.

“We remember, of course, the incredible work of our NHS and care home colleagues, but I’d like to pay tribute to the dedication of all key workers during that time – including our own officers – and also recognise the efforts of those many volunteers and grassroot organisations that demonstrated the true strength and resilience of our communities during a crisis.”

“Our thoughts are with you all, as well as those still affected by the impact of the pandemic to this day,” added Cllr Smith.