WITH one year passing since Boris Johnson announced his stay-at-home message to the UK for the first time, Sutton has announced its plans to create a garden of reflection.

To mark the first anniversary since lockdown began, a section of green space opposite St Helier Hospital will be transformed to honour those that have sadly died from coronavirus.

Sutton residents Laura Devereux and Maureen Morant, came up with the idea as a way to pay tribute and to celebrate the community spirit and hard work of the NHS colleagues throughout Covid-19.

Together with Epsom-St Helier Trust and Sutton Housing Partnership, the council will create a beautiful space for residents to honour, sit and reflect.

Sutton Council has confirmed that work on creating the garden recently started with the planting of pine, birch and cherry trees.

Additional features will be introduced over the next 12 months with further planting taking place from autumn 2021.

PA

PA

Councillor Trish Fivey, Mayor of Sutton said: “We know that it has been a hugely challenging year for everyone, with Covid impacting all aspects of our lives.

“In spite of the difficulties, the response from the community, voluntary and business sector in Sutton has been incredible and there are some truly remarkable and inspirational stories of people going out of their way to help neighbours, friends and family.

“I am delighted that now we will have a Garden of Reflection at St Helier which will serve as an ongoing reminder of what we’ve all been through and that when times are tough, people in Sutton will come together and will support each other”.

Resident Laura Devereux said: “We wanted to create somewhere special where people would have the opportunity to remember those they have lost during the pandemic, when normal rituals and gatherings have not been possible

"At the same time, the garden gives us a space to reflect on the strength of the community and give thanks to the NHS who looked after loved ones when we were not able to be there.

“The growth of the trees and flowers, gives us hope of new beginnings.”

The garden will officially open in spring 2022 and will include seating, carved sculptures, planted borders and wildflower meadows.