Epsom and St Helier hospitals lit up in remembrance of the lives lost in the past year as thousands reflected on the anniversary of the first national lockdown.

The hospital buildings were bathed in blue light and a ‘rainbow of reflection’ projected from their rooftops last night (March 23), as part of the National Day of Reflection.

The National Day of Reflection gave people across the country an opportunity to remember those who have so sadly died with Covid-19.

It comes after Sutton Council announced that they have partnered with Epsom-St Helier Trust and Sutton Housing Partnership to create a garden of reflection opposite St Helier Hospital.

Surrey Comet: Epsom Hospital Epsom Hospital

Sutton Council recently confirmed that work on creating the garden has started with the planting of pine, birch and cherry trees.

MORE: Covid garden of reflection to open in St Helier

Staff across the trust were invited to take part in the minute silences at 12 noon and 8pm, with the lights shining from 8pm to 11pm to indicate the unity among the communities surrounding Epsom and St Helier.

With the hospital chapels open all day, in a Covid-safe environment, staff and the public were welcome to take time out to reflect and pay their respects.

Surrey Comet: St Helier St Helier

Chief Executive Daniel Elkeles said: “It has been a very difficult year, both for our communities and for our staff who have so tirelessly served them.

"We felt we absolutely must mark this date, and publicly recognise the thousands of people in our communities who have been affected by Covid-19, and of course, every member of our incredible staff.

"The care and support they have given over the past 12 months has been frankly incomparable and I know I speak for our local communities when I say we cannot thank them enough for their unshakeable commitment.”