Events held across Scotland reflect on the impact of the pandemic.
In a solemn tribute to those lost to Covid-19, memorial events took place on Thursday, marking the third anniversary of the initial lockdown. At Pollok Park in Glasgow, a minute’s silence was observed at the I Remember: Scotland’s Covid Memorial. This gathering formed part of the National Day of Reflection.
During the event, three wreaths were laid in honour of the deceased, with Alec Finlay, the memorial’s creator, and Scotland’s Makar Kathleen Jamie reading selected excerpts from I Remember, a collection of personal memories from the pandemic. The memorial features 40 oak tree supports, creating a reflective pathway through the park.
Finlay noted that the designs were inspired by the community support witnessed during the pandemic. Among those present was Peter McMahon, who lost his wife Debbie to the virus in 2020. McMahon, a member of Covid-19 Families Scotland and the Scottish Covid Bereaved Justice Group, expressed the day’s emotional weight: “It’s a very poignant day for me personally.”
He highlighted the importance of this memorial as a place for reflection and comfort, stating, “This garden is not just for the bereaved; it’s also about remembering all those who suffered in various ways during the pandemic.”
As part of the ceremony, McMahon laid a wreath on behalf of Covid-19 Families Scotland, while another wreath carried the message: “In memory of every life lost to Covid.” This gathering coincided with the completion of the memorial, which was opened last May by Scotland’s Deputy First Minister John Swinney.
In a parallel initiative, the University of Dundee Botanic Garden inaugurated its Good Grief Memorial Garden, a notable space dedicated to those who perished during the pandemic. Curator Kevin Frediani remarked on the importance of providing a serene environment for visitors to reflect on their loved ones.
He stated, “We hope that individuals from across Scotland find solace in this special place.” The garden features four obelisks, each symbolising a season, and is surrounded by trees to ensure privacy for those seeking a moment of contemplation.
