Tree planting marks lives lost and sacrifices made during the pandemic

A commemorative tree was planted in Reading yesterday (March 9) to remember the lives lost and sacrifices made by residents during the Covid pandemic.

The Mayor of Reading, Cllr Alice Mpofu-Coles, spoke at the event in Lorenzo Quelch Gardens, close to the Royal Berkshire Hospital, before being joined by the Deputy Lieutenant, Rohit Tanna, to officially plant the tree.

The planting of the commemorative Davidia involucrate tree, also known as a dove or handkerchief tree, took place following the UK-wide Covid-19 ‘Day of Reflection’ on Sunday 8 March 2026.

Cllr Mpofu-Coles said:

“Monday’s solemn tree-planting event was an opportunity for Reading’s community to come together and remember those who lost their lives, those who are living with Long Covid, families and friends who experienced loss, and all of those who made enormous sacrifices during the pandemic.

“We all remember the importance of green spaces as the country sought to spend time in nature during lockdown and it felt appropriate to be marking this day by being closer to nature.”

Rachel Eden, Lead Councillor for Health at Reading Borough Council, added:

“In planting this tree, we will be remembering all those who have lost their lives or are now living with the consequences of Covid-19. Those who have been bereaved remain at the forefront of our minds.

“The planting of the tree also gives us the opportunity again to pay thanks to those who made sacrifices during the pandemic, from frontline NHS staff to Council staff, public transport workers, refuse collectors and other key workers - as well as parents who home-schooled and young people whose lives were put on pause.”

The commemorative tree plaque placed during the event states: “In memory of all those who lost their lives since the Covid-19 pandemic began. In gratitude for the dedication of health and social care staff, frontline workers and researchers, and in recognition of the volunteers and acts of kindness shown during this unprecedented time.”

“We are incredibly proud of the staff and volunteers who delivered safe, high-quality care to our community throughout Covid. Their courage and commitment during such exceptionally challenging times should never be forgotten.

“We're delighted that our partners at Reading Borough Council are planting this tree as a lasting tribute to our Trust teams, and the wider NHS, for everything they gave during that period.

“Closer to home, we have planted trees in our staff wellbeing garden in memory of two of our own staff, Dr Peter Tun and nurse Julie Edward, who sadly lost their lives while serving our community during the pandemic."

Media contact: Alenka Daniel – alenka@bluelozenge.co.uk