An emotional ceremony took place yesterday to mark the unveiling of a plaque for those who have suffered during the Covid-19 pandemic.

The plaque, in Whitehaven's Trinity Garden, was put up last year to recognise the difficulties faced by the community during the Covid-19 pandemic, but little was known about it.

The plaque was finally given a proper opening on Tuesday 6 April and the ceremony was attended by members of the public and local vicar, Dave Harkinson, who gave a talk to mark the occasion.

Labour Cumbria County Councillor for Mirehouse, Mike Hawkins, said: “It’s not just a place of remembrance for those who have been lost to Covid, it’s where people can go and reflect.

“People just stubble across the area of the park and it hadn’t been officially recognised as a place in Whitehaven where people can take time out of their day and just go and remember people who have been affected by Covid."

Reverend David Harkinson of the United Reform Church in Whitehaven said he was out for a walk when he stumbled upon the secluded gardens that used to be part of Trinity Church.

He said: "I spotted it a few weeks ago when I was out for my daily walk and I didn't even know that it existed.

"I was asked if I would be willing to dedicate it.

"I did and it was a pleasure to do so."

Rev. Harkinson, who is also a hospital chaplain, said the plaque touched him deeply.

"It's for everybody, not just those who have lost loved ones.

"We've all suffered in some way, either through not being able to work properly or being stuck at home and not being able to see family.

"I think the wording of the plaques has just hit it spot on, that its for all who lived and suffered during it."

A bench was added to the spot a week before the opening, so that people could sit and reflect.

Rev. Harkinson added: "A lot of people don't know it's there.

"To have that place to be able to go and just sit will be of a great advantage to people."