Events to mark and reflect the pandemic

Sculptor George King said the Sheffield memorial was "a symbol of grief and also of growth and rebirth"

People have been invited to reflect on the loss of life and efforts to tackle the Covid-19 pandemic on its fifth anniversary.

A range of events in South Yorkshire have been arranged to give people a chance to pay tribute to loved ones, as well the workers who helped during the outbreak.

A nationwide day of reflection to remember those who died during the pandemic and the public servants who helped keep vital services running is being held on Sunday.

In Doncaster, The city council said it would give away small memorial trees for people to plant and in Barnsley the Glass Works Square will a focal point for singing and reflection.

Barnsley's events are due to begin at 11:00 GMT with a service involving words from the mayor and poetry readings from Ian McMillan.

Primary school students will be singing and there will be a performance from Tom Masters and the Barnsley Metropolitan Band.

Barnsley's memorial is called Reverence, and is by sculptor Graham Ibbeson and engraved with poetry by Ian McMillan

Council leader Sir Steve Houghton said: "What I'm most proud of in Barnsley is our people.

"During an incredibly difficult time, we saw an extraordinary display of community spirit that showcased the strength of Barnsley and our communities."

He said the day of reflection was an "important opportunity to honour the loved ones we lost".

A similar event is planned in central Sheffield at the Covid memorial in Balm Gardens.

Doncaster's Covid memorial is covered in hundreds of colourful metal hearts, each with an engraved message of thanks, or words in memory of those who died during the pandemic

In Doncaster, the city council offered free trees to residents who can pick them up on the day of reflection from the Covid Memorial Wood on Sandall Beat Road to plant them at home.

It said it was as a way of remembering loved ones or the efforts of key workers.

People in Rotherham were invited to the town's living Covid memorial, Hope Fields, which was designed as a tribute to those who lost their lives, and those who worked in the emergency services and key workers.

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