Memorial to Darlington residents who lost their lives to Covid-19

Dozens of trees are to be planted across Darlington as a special memorial to those who lost their lives to Covid-19.

The trees are to be planted at nine locations and a specially commissioned plaque placed at each site with an inscription that reads:

These trees were planted in memory of Darlington residents

who lost their lives to Covid-19

Rest in Peace

Councillor Heather Scott OBE

Leader of Darlington Borough Council

The locations are South Park, Springfield Park, Eastbourne Park, North Park, Staindrop Road/Parkland Drive and West Park.

There will also be three further sites in rural wards within the borough. A memorial seat will also be installed at each of the locations as Covid-19 restrictions are lifted.

A short ceremony will be held at each site with Cllr Heather Scott, leader of Darlington Borough Council, and local ward councillors. The first took place at South Park earlier today (18 May).

Cllr Scott said:

“The people of Darlington are not alone in mourning the loss of loved ones during this pandemic, which has hit many of us hard.

“However, it has also brought our communities closer together, as we joined forces to support each other throughout- something that has made me so proud of Darlington residents.

“We wanted to create a lasting memorial to those we have lost, and what better way than to plant trees that will hopefully grow and flourish as we work together to ensure Darlington and its communities can do the same.”

For the latest information and guidance on Covid-19 please visit here.