Post-Pandemic Contemplation Area Created At Worthing's Brooklands Park

A special space to remember loved ones lost during the pandemic has been created at Brooklands Park in Worthing.

With so many residents affected by the pandemic, Adur & Worthing Councils have created an area where people can remember, heal and move forward from the last 24 months.

Put together by the Councils’ park rangers, the space features 19 silver birch trees which have been planted by people and groups that have had a significant positive impact on our communities in this time.

As well as supporting a diverse amount of wildlife, the silver birch symbolises new beginnings and protection. The trees have been positioned to create a circle which represents the circle of life.

The space, located near the amphitheatre at the north of Brooklands, is also being used to celebrate the work of community champions and volunteer groups who helped our residents through the pandemic.

One of the representatives invited to plant a tree was Western Sussex Hospitals Chief Nurse Dr Maggie Davies.

Dr Maggie Davies, the Chief Nurse of Western Sussex Hospitals, planting a tree with Head Ranger Anthony Reed

Dr Davies said:

“It was a privilege to attend, in recognition of the tremendous community response to the pandemic.

“I am so incredibly proud of our staff and all they have done to care for patients during such a challenging time. The teamwork across our hospitals, and across broader NHS services, has been remarkable and is something I will never forget.

“As we look ahead, planting a silver birch tree in commemoration and as a symbol of new beginnings, feels particularly poignant.”

Local councillors, representatives of South Central Ambulance Service’s patient transport team, Samaritans volunteers, members from the Councils’ bereavement team, Sompting GP Dr Shona Schofield and volunteers from Lancing vaccination centre also took part in the plantings.

The Chairman of Adur District Council, Cllr Stephen Chipp, said:

“It was an honour to help plant a tree to commemorate and provide a reminder for those lost during the Covid crisis.  I hope over time this area can be used for quiet contemplation for those families and friends of lost loved ones.”

The Chairman of Adur planting his tree at Brooklands

The Mayor of Worthing, Cllr Lionel Harman, said:

“It’s nice to come here today to be involved with this project to commemorate those that helped us all out during the COVID crisis. What better way to show our support and appreciation than planting a tree?”

The Mayor and Mayoress of Worthing at Brooklands with Head Ranger Anthony Read

Members of the public are invited to visit the space, whether they wish to remember a loved one or to show their appreciation to those who have gone the extra mile in our community.

Park rangers from the Councils will closely manage the site, with there also being plans to add colourful bedding plants and potentially seating at a later date.