Covid-19 Memorial Tree campaign gets the support of Hemel Hempstead MP Sir Mike Penning

The MP for Hemel Hempstead is backing a local campaign to plant a Memorial Tree to remember all those in Dacorum who died during the Covid-19 pandemic.

Sir Mike Penning has joined Dacorum Borough Council in backing the campaign, which is being organised by Margaret Sharp who is a carers ambassador for Carers In Hertfordshire and her grand-daughter Jasmyn Saunders.

Margaret said: “As a carers ambassador, I lost friends, neighbours, colleagues and people from the community that I had known and supported for over 20 years.

"It breaks my heart to know that so many families where unable to say a proper goodbye to their loved ones because of the lockdown restrictions.

“A Memorial Tree would be a focal point for families and individuals to go for a moment of reflection to remember those they lost.

“I am delighted with the early response to this campaign, and I very much hope many people will get involved and contribute. It would be really nice if we could have a bench near the tree for people to use.”

The campaign has already attracted the support of a number of local businesses.

Kishor Patel owner of Nisa Local in Crabtree Lane said: “We have supported many local community projects since 2008 and this is a very worthwhile cause. We are happy to contribute.

"So many people have been affected by this terrible pandemic and a Memorial Tree will be a great way to remember family and friends.”

Nisa Local’s charity Making a Difference Locally (MADL) has contributed £1,000.

Sir Mike Penning MP said: “I am very happy to support this project. Covid-19 has been an unhappy milestone in all our lives.

"Many people have lost loved ones and it would be appropriate to have a single place of reflection.

"What better memorial than a tree in Gadebridge Park which has been a place where so many people have been able to briefly escape lockdown?”

Margaret has set up a fundraising page - Memorial tree for those lost through Covid-19 - in a bid to raise £6,000.