Banbury community leader applauds Prime Minister for hearing call for Remembrance Day for Covid victims

Andy Willis, BCAv, leader of the Banburyshire Advice Centre, created a Change.org petition calling on the Prime Minister to dedicate a Day of Remembrance for all those who have lost their lives to Covid-19 and those affected by the pandemic.

And he says he was delighted when the Prime Minister accepted the idea, on the day news broke that 100,000 people had died from the virus.

"I was excited that the campaign has been finally listened to. It will be a great comfort to families who have lost their lives or have been affected by the virus," he said.

As well as his petition, Mr Willis wrote to Mr Johnson and HMH The Queen.

He said in his letter: "I know you have personally been affected by the crisis and hope you could see the merit in my idea.

"Covid has had a huge impact on society and everyone has been deeply affected on many levels; people have sadly lost their lives. The day should remember everyone affected by this terrible disease, the loss of lives, people suffering mental health problems, people working in the NHS and all first contact workers."

Mr Willis suggested the day might include fundraising for relief, research and to help families affected.

"We should make sure the loss of lives is never forgotten and the day gives a focus for schools in future generations to understand what happened so lessons are learned to help future generations," he said.

"Many people who have lost ones have not had a proper way to say good bye. It will also draw the nation together in one remembering lost ones and remembering all the dedication of the NHS staff, key workers and the unsung volunteer heroes."