A memorial garden – with a striking centrepiece – is set to be unveiled in Workington later this month for coronavirus victims.
The Nightingale Garden, in Vulcan Park, will be revealed on Thursday, March 23.
RAF Engineering has made the centrepiece sculpture, designed by Steve Marshall, and donated it to the town.
Featuring painted pebbles in the base, the sculpture is a globe and features hands and a water feature to signify hand washing.
Workington Town Council is behind the scheme and a spokesman said: “The garden has been created for the community of Workington to remember those who died during the COVID-19 pandemic; to also remember those who are still suffering today and to everyone who made sacrifices to help those in need.”
Rafal Gibki, owner of RAF Engineering, said: “We are delighted to be able to unveil our monument as part of the Nightingale Garden and provide a place for the community of Workington to go to reflect on their experience of the COVID-19 pandemic. We hope that the monument will bring comfort to those who need it; knowing that there is now a permanent memorial for all who suffered and lost their lives.
“RAF Engineering would like to thank everyone who has helped produce the monument; this includes Steve, who designed the monument and Lloyds British who provided their services free of charge.”
Councillor Beth Dixon, chair of Workington Town Council’s environment committee, added: “We would like to thank RAF Engineering for their generous donation. We would also like to thank Stobbarts Ltd and Day Cummins for their help on the project and all the other staff and companies who have helped make this project possible. We are very excited to be able to unveil the monument and garden for our community; I am sure it will be a special place for many.”
The unveiling ceremony takes place at 10am on Thursday, March 23.
