Year living in lockdown

thank everyone for their efforts and appreciation in an open letter.

Andy Williams, chief executive of Leicester, Leicestershire and Rutland’s clinical commissioning groups, Angela Hillery, chief executive of Leicestershire Partnership NHS Trust, and Rebecca Brown, acting chief executive of University Hospitals of Leicester NHS Trust, joined together to pen the message.

They said: “This time last year the country entered its first lockdown as the severity of the coronavirus threat began to emerge. Little did we know just how challenging the following 12 months would be for all of us.

“By this point in 2020, we had already seen our first local cases and, very sadly, our first death. During the year that has followed our hospitals have cared for many thousands of patients who tested positive for the disease. Tragically, more than 2,000 loved ones and colleagues have lost their lives. “Like you, we mourn for them every day. Throughout the many difficult days we’ve been sustained by the tremendous support for the NHS from people across Leicester, Leicestershire and Rutland. We have been moved week after week by your kindness, generosity and understanding.”

Public buildings marked the day by lowering flags to half-mast to remember all those who have died from coronavirus and, in the evening, council buildings were lit, just as they were during the first lockdown last year to thank all key workers, particularly those working in the NHS and in social care. Leicester Cathedral hosted a virtual service of music, readings and reflection.

Little did we know just how challenging the following 12 months would be for all of us

Health officials’ statement