NHS workers mark second anniversary of Covid-19 pandemic in St Helens

After the global spread of coronavirus, the World Health Organisation declared the outbreak a pandemic two years ago today, on March 11, 2020.

To mark the sombre occasion, NHS staff across St Helens took part in a minute's silence today (Friday, March 11) to remember all the lives lost to coronavirus and the difficulties that the pandemic has caused.

A commemorative wreath was also placed in The Rainbow Garden at Whiston Hospital.

A wreath has been placed in the grounds of Whiston Hospital

Colleagues at St Helens hospitals have also been remembered

Since the pandemic began, 662 people have died in St Helens with COVID-19 on their death certificate, with doctors and nurses treating hundreds more infected with the illness in hospitals across the region.

Three staff members at St Helens and Knowsley Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust (STHK), Sadeq Elhowsh, Joe Fairclough, and Margaret Waine, have also died with the illness.

March 11 is the second anniversary since the World Health Organisation declared Covid-19 a global pandemic

Ann Marr OBE, Chief Executive at STHK said: “Today we reflect on the impact of the pandemic not just here at the Trust but across our community.

"We remember all those we’ve lost and recognise the commitment of our colleagues who have given so much of themselves over the past two years.

"There will never be the words to fully reflect how appreciative I am of each and every member of our staff and I will never tire of thanking them for all that they continue to do for our patients - I am extremely proud”.