A memorial to people who died in the Covid-19 pandemic has been installed in a Leicestershire park.
The Hope Bell was constructed in Queen’s Park, in Loughborough, on Tuesday as a tribute to those who lost their lives and a thank you to NHS staff and key workers.
The 7.5m (24.6ft) tall structure features five bells supported by four steel pillars, which symbolise people coming together to embrace in a hug.
The town’s John Taylor & Co, the UK’s last major bell foundry, made the bell as part of Charnwood Borough Council’s multi-million pound scheme to improve the town.
It will serve as a reminder of how communities came together to support each other in challenging times. It will also be a space for reflection to remember those lost in the pandemic.
A stone base will be added in the coming weeks before the area is landscaped. The installation is due to be completed in October and power will then need to be added to operate the bells to make them chime.
Cllr Anne Gray, the Council’s lead member for open spaces, said: “I was delighted to see the bells being installed and the Hope Bell reach this significant milestone. It is a historic moment for the park and I look forward to the structure being completed.”
Cllr Jennifer Tillotson, the Council’s lead member for economic development, regeneration and town centres, said: “The Hope Bell is really taking shape and I was pleased to see it all coming together. The Hope Bell celebrates the town’s unique bell-making heritage and marks an important moment in our history.”
