‘Inspiring community spirit’ praised by cabinet member
Horsham people should be inspired by the community spirit shown in the last year.
This is the message from cabinet member for Horsham District Council leisure and culture councillor Jonathan Chowen as he reflected on 12 months of lockdown restrictions.
On the national day of reflection, March 23, he said: “Whilst the National Day of Reflection will afford us the time to pause and reflect at the unprecedented difficulties many of us have had to face over the past twelve months, we cannot help but also be inspired by displays of resourcefulness and community spirit over this time.
“Much has been emphasized about the role that nature has played and how the natural world has brought comfort and strength to many.”
Mr Chowen added that people have had much more time to explore the outdoors particularly in their local area.
He said: “We have experienced increased numbers of local residents enjoying all that our parks and open spaces have to offer; Chesworth Farm, Leechpool and Owlbeech Woods and Horsham Park, amongst many others. And more people have had the time to explore our district on foot or by cycle than ever before.
“As we now prepare to open up our parks and amenities more fully, we hope that this trend will continue and people will continue to enjoy the considerable health and wellbeing benefits of our local natural environment.”
Council chairman councillor Karen Burgess also reflected on Tuesday’s anniversary of the UK going into lockdown for the first time.
She added: “Here across the Horsham District, we are planning to support this day of commemoration by observing a one minute silence at 12noon and taking part in a doorstep vigil at 8pm, to both remember those who have died, and to show support for everyone who has been bereaved.”
The campaign is spearheaded by end of life charity Marie Curie, and the day gave communities a moment to remember, grieve and celebrate anyone who has died during this difficult time and show support for those who are grieving, she added.