Colchester is coming together to honour the lives lost, reflect on the lasting impact of the pandemic, and pay tribute to the incredible resilience of our community at the COVID-19 Day of Reflection event on Friday, 7 March from 11 am to 2 pm at Firstsite.
The event will feature contributions from local organisations and community groups that played key roles during the pandemic. Attendees will have the chance to take part in art and craft activities designed to provide an outlet for personal expression.
COVID-19 has profoundly affected families worldwide, bringing grief and hardship to many. For Debby, the pain was especially deep – losing both her father and her eldest sister within ten days, was devastating. The weight of such immense loss in such a short time was almost unbearable.
“My children lost their aunt and godmother without a chance to say goodbye,” Debby reflects. “Tina never got to know she was going to be a great-aunt—she would have loved that.” Despite the sorrow, Debby is grateful for the support from close friends, funeral and crematorium staff. “We are not alone,” she acknowledges. “So many families have faced the same pain.”
A bright moment amidst the darkness was becoming a grandmother. Her grandsons, Max and Ruben, brought her hope. “They keep me going, and for them, I am truly blessed.” Debby emphasises the need for a space in Colchester where people can reflect on their loss. “Knowing others have experienced the same pain provides comfort. Those of us who have survived this dreadful pandemic can support each other.”
In light of this, a poignant unveiling of a COVID-19 memorial took place on 3 March at Colchester Crematorium, serving as a permanent tribute to those we lost. Looking ahead, a memorial stone will also be placed at Trinity Square, once the restoration work at Holy Trinity Church is completed, ensuring that the legacy of those we lost will be remembered and honoured for generations to come.
The Mayor, Cllr Lesley Scott-Boutell, has been dedicated to making this memorial a reality, pushing forward the initiative to ensure a meaningful place of remembrance in the heart of the city.
The Mayor of Colchester said: “The memorial stone at Trinity Square will provide another important place for quiet reflection, ensuring the legacy of those we lost is honoured for generations to come. Remembrance flowers such as lavender and forget-me-nots will be planted around the memorial, symbolising love, memory, and resilience.”
“It is crucial that people have an easily accessible place to reflect and find comfort. Trinity Square is the perfect location for this memorial, it will be a space where our community can come together in remembrance and healing, and it’s great that we’ve been able to organise the memorial ready for when the works are completed in the coming years.”
The Mayor added: “As we approach the COVID-19 Day of Reflection, we are reminded of the profound impact the pandemic has had on our lives. Yet, even in the face of loss, the strength of our community—its unity, resilience, and acts of kindness—shone through. This day is not only a chance to remember those we have lost, but to celebrate the courage and compassion that helped us navigate such difficult times.”
“I encourage everyone to join us as we reflect, remember, and stand together in hope for the future.”
Pictured above, L to R: Reverend Peter Evans, Russell Gadsby, Cllr David King, Cllr Natalie Sommers, Deputy Mayoress Lyn Barton, Susi Long, Wendy DeRosa, Michelle Tarbun, and Lee Copping.
Page last reviewed: 4 March 2025