A new Covid memorial was unveiled by the Oxford mayor who suggests there has been a lack of memorials up until now in the city and nationally.

The bench, plaque and cherry tree were incorporated into Bury Knowle park in Headington in memory of "those who died and suffered during the Covid pandemic".

An attendee described how "a rainbow graced the scene" as people decorated memorial lanterns and planted bulbs in memory of loved ones.

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Mayor of Oxford, Lubna Arshad, said: "Today our hearts weigh heavy as we unite to honour the cherished memories of those we’ve lost during the challenging times of the Covid pandemic.

"In our shared sorrow, let us also embrace the resilience and unity that define our community."

An event spokesperson added that the daffodils and bulbs planted would brighten the grass around the tree as people sit and reflect "on those times" on the new bench.

Oxford Mail: Mayor of Oxford, Lubna Arshad Mayor of Oxford, Lubna Arshad (Image: Contribution)The memorial was made possible by support of the Kicking the Bucket festival of living and dying 2023 as well as a grant from Oxford City Council.

Latest figures show that of October 13, 228,448 people across the UK had died with Covid on their death certificate by date registered.

This included 292 in Oxford meaning 193 per 100,000 people in the area died due to Covid.

Ensuing governmental 'lockdowns' in response to the virus also led some to suggest the existence of a mental health epidemic.