COVID-19 Remembrance to be held in Glass Works Square

A COVID-19 Remembrance Service will take place on Sunday 8 March 2026 at 11am in Glass Works Square, offering a moment of reflection, remembrance and collective gratitude.

Residents are invited to come together to remember those who lost their lives during the COVID-19 pandemic and to honour the tireless work and acts of kindness shown across our communities during an unprecedented time. 

The service will take place on the same day as the national COVID19 Day of Reflection, which has now been confirmed by the Government as an annual event, to remember those who have died since the pandemic began and recognise the compassion, resilience and dedication shown by health and care workers, volunteers, key workers and residents throughout this challenging period.

The service, hosted by the Mayor of Barnsley alongside the Rector of the Barnsley Benefice, will last around 20 minutes and include a two-minute silence, a laying of flowers in remembrance of those who lost their lives and all those affected by the pandemic.

Councillor David James Leech, Mayor of Barnsley, said:

The pandemic affected every family and every community in Barnsley, and it is right that we continue to take time to remember those who were lost and recognise the compassion shown during such a difficult period. This service reflects the strength of our borough in looking out for one another, while also acknowledging the dedication of key workers, NHS staff, volunteers and all those who supported others in challenging circumstances. I hope people will join us, or mark the day in their own way, as we reflect together with gratitude and quiet remembrance.

The service is open to all, and residents are encouraged to attend whether they wish to remember loved ones, reflect quietly, or stand alongside others in remembrance and solidarity. Floral tributes are welcome.

If you can’t make the service, or you would prefer to mark the day in your own way, here are some simple and meaningful ways you could take part: 

• making a small ‘mini memorial’ to place in a window or local space 
• lighting a candle in memory of someone you have lost 
• holding a moment of silent reflection 
• sharing memories or photos of loved ones, or writing down personal experiences 
• signing an online book of remembrance to leave a digital tribute 
• performing an act of kindness for a friend, family member or neighbour 
• donating to a charity that supported you or your community during the pandemic 

Further information about the National Day of Reflection, including ideas for getting involved and support for those who may find the day difficult, is available at dayofreflection.campaign.gov.uk.