Post-pandemic contemplation area created at Brooklands Park, Worthing

With many residents affected by the pandemic, Adur and 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 in Brooklands Park, Worthing, features 19 silver birch trees which have been planted by people and groups that have had a positive impact on communities.

The silver birch symbolises new beginnings and protection, as well as supporting a diverse amount of wildlife.

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

The trees have been positioned to create a circle which represents the circle of life. 

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

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

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

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

“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.”

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.