East Grinstead commemorative benches for Covid pandemic unveiled

One bench remembers all who have been lost or suffered through the lockdowns and the other is to thank the great efforts of so many who have and continue to help to bring us through.

The two benches were placed at the McIndoe Lawn on Wednesday (February 24) and unveiled by town councillor Helen Farren, chairman of the amenities and tourism committee.

She said: “These benches are our permanent memorial to all affected by the pandemic, through the grief of losing a loved one, the loneliness of shielding and even being restricted on going outside.

“We also wanted to separately say thank you to all those working so hard to keep us safe and bring us through. As the Prime Minster this week announced the roadmap towards the end of restrictions and a return to normality it seemed appropriate for East Grinstead to unveil our memorial.”

There are two benches: one is a bespoke steel bench with representative images of all groups of people touched by the pandemic, including words to

those lost and with an additional inscription: “For many months, to sit outside was but a wish.”

The second is an EGTC standard bench, with the inscription: “Recognising all those who helped to overcome Covid 19, NHS, Key Workers and all volunteers.”

A town council spokesman said: “It is hoped as people sit on the benches by the statue they will reflect on the struggle of the Second World War where pioneering surgery was developed, through to the 2020/21 pandemic where again pioneering science was needed to bring us back to being able to enjoy the simple things like sitting on a bench in the sunshine. While remembering those who did not make it.”