Minute's silence held in Wales to remember those lost to coronavirus

Aneurin Bevan Memorial Stones in Tredegar lit up yellow in memory of those who have died


A minute's silence was held in Wales on Tuesday to mark one year on since the first UK-wide lockdown and to reflect on the coronavirus pandemic in Wales.

Tuesday marks one year since Boris Johnson told people in the UK to stay at home unless for a limited number of reasons, ordered all non-essential shops to close, and said that gatherings of more than two people in public were banned.

The first confirmed case of coronavirus in Wales was recorded on February 28 2020.

First Minister Mark Drakeford led a minute's silence at the Welsh Government's Cathays Park building in Cardiff at midday to remember those who have died during the pandemic.

It has been one year since lockdown restrictions were first introduced. Credit: PA Images

The first death from Covid-19 in Wales was recorded at Wrexham Maelor Hospital

Mr Drakeford said: "Over the last 12 months, the pandemic has turned all our lives upside down.

"Too many families have lost loved ones and close friends and so many people haven't had a chance to say goodbye because of all the changes coronavirus has meant to our lives.

"It's really important we have an opportunity to come together to reflect on the last year and to unite to support each other through this tough time."

Led by end of life charity Marie Curie, more than 300 organisations are taking part in the day including emergency services, schools, charities, businesses, institutions, community groups, faith leaders and bereaved families across the UK.

Staff at the charity's Cardiff and the Vale Hospice in Penarth came together in the garden - which is decorated with yellow ribbon - to reflect on the past year.

Staff at the charity's hospice in Penarth came together in the garden to mark the occasion. Credit: Marie Curie

They were joined by officers and staff from South Wales Police who also took the time to pay their respects.

On Tuesday evening, iconic and historic buildings across the country lit up in yellow, in memory of those who have been lost in the pandemic.

The locations include the Senedd, Cardiff and Caernarfon Castle, the Principality Stadium and the Aneurin Bevan Memorial Stones in Tredegar.

Hospitals who have been on the frontline throughout the pandemic have also lit up in memory of those who have died.

At Grange University Hospital in Cwmbran the building was lit up in the colours of the rainbow.