The city’s three MPs are expected to join Mayor Alan Robins in paying respect to the 502 people who have died in the city from the virus, as well as showing support to those who cared for them.

At the heart of today’s commemorations is a ‘Service of Compassion’, taking place at the Brighton Dome Concert Hall this afternoon.

The service will feature music from Brighton-based folk and acoustic band The Cheer-Up Mollys, as well as performances by The Florentine Quartet and The Soul of the City gospel choir.

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There will also be readings, a series of short films featuring people from Brighton and Hove, and memories from those that have served on the front line during the pandemic.

The Dome’s foyer will also be open from 11am to 2pm today as a ‘Place of Reflection’, with a range of stalls run by charities and services that have supported Brighton and Hove during the last 18 months.

The day is organised by Brighton and Hove’s Interfaith Group, which serves as Chaplain to the Mayor, and represents many of the faith groups, and those with no faith, in the city.

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Councillor Robins, the city’s mayor, said: "Our city, like so many, has suffered terribly during the pandemic.

"We cannot quantify the pain, but we all share the sorrow of those who experienced the passing of 502 people - friends and relatives - who died in this city over this time.

"Many of us have experienced loss, and the Day of Compassion allows our city - a place unique for its spirit - to share its sorrows and come together in a gesture of heartfelt kindness."

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Other events include an exhibition at Jubilee Library about the city and its people during the pandemic and a workshop session for eight to 12-year-olds to remember someone they have lost at Fabrica in Duke Street.

Brighton’s first confirmed case of covid-19 was reported on February 6 2020, with the country entering the first of several national lockdowns just over a month later on March 23.

Since the start of the pandemic, almost 32,000 cases of the virus have been reported in the city up to October 14 this year.

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