Landmarks shine a light on the darkest of times as city reflects
Landmarks across Sunderland were illuminated in yellow as a tribute to all those who have died and been bereaved during the coronavirus pandemic.
Sunderland City Council showed its support for the national day of reflection by lighting National Trust owned Penshaw Monument, the Northern Spire bridge, Hylton Castle, Fulwell Mill and Keel Square, the white lighthouse at Seaburn, Market Square, High Street West and The Beacon of Light.
Spearheaded by end of life charity Marie Curie, the day was organised to give the nation and communities a moment to remember, grieve and celebrate the lives of everyone who has died and show support for families, friends and colleagues who are grieving.
Cllr Graeme Miller, leader of Sunderland City Council, said of Tuesday night’s tribute: "This last year has been truly devastating for many families across our city who have lost a loved one to Covid and it's entirely right that we remember all those who have sadly died and join with their families in grieving for their loss.
"It's also important that we reflect on the impact this pandemic has had on everyone in our city during this incredibly hard year.
"There have been huge impacts for our businesses and our economy and we have all seen life change in ways that would have seemed unimaginable 12 months ago.
"But we have also seen our city’s tremendous strength of community spirit shining through these darkest of times with countless acts of kindness and heroic selflessness.
"Sunderland is known as a city where people look out for each other, and that has never been more true than it has these last 12 months.”
He added: "Day after day, we have seen our NHS colleagues, health and social care staff and key workers working tirelessly to protect our communities and our community and voluntary sector partners have been invaluable in helping us provide support to our city's most vulnerable.
"It's important that we don’t lose sight of any of this as we look forward to the future.
"Covid will be with us for a long time to come so we also need to continue to do everything we can to keep the virus under control by following the guidance to keep us all safe."