Mansfield District Council has marked the National Day of Reflection today (Thursday 23 March) with a minute's silence and the lighting of candles.
Marking three years to the day since the first national lockdown of the Covid-19 pandemic, the day of reflection aims to give the nation a chance to remember loved ones, support grieving people, and connect with others in the community.
In recognition of the NHS and blue light services, the town's Bentinck Memorial will be lit blue at dusk.
Chief Executive of Mansfield District Council Adam Hill gave a short speech in a morning acknowledgement of the occasion. This was then followed by a staff event held at the Cenotaph, behind the Civic Centre off Chesterfield Road, where Strategic Director Mariam Amos gave a short speech and then lit a candle before joining the nation in a minute's silence at noon.
In his morning address Adam said: "It is hard to believe that on this day three years ago we were on the cusp of a change that none of us would have recognised, and it changed our lives forever.
“We need to today make the time to reflect. Reflect on those people who have died, reflect on the support that we need to give for those people who are grieving and reach out to each other in this time of reflection.
“For many families, today will be a very emotional time. A time when they think back and remember some difficult moments, life changing moments, they will have experienced. But, we must also remember those people that supported the country during that time.
“So, please, reach out to friends, family, and colleagues at work who may be grieving today and struggling through what is a poignant day.”