The Government has announced a COVID-19 Day of Reflection on Sunday 9 March 2025 to remember the fifth anniversary of the start of the pandemic and its impact on communities across the UK.  It is an opportunity for people to remember those who lost their lives since the pandemic began and to honour the tireless work and acts of kindness shown during this unprecedented time. Many people still live with the debilitating effects of long-Covid. 

In 2022, Freeman Brothers Funeral Directors kindly installed a bench and a Horsham stone memorial on the Hurstpierpoint Village Green next to the War Memorial, to provide a focal point for local residents.  The Covid memorial pays tribute to the Covid-19 Neighbours’ Support Group, St Lawrence School and all emergency, caring and key workers who worked tirelessly throughout the darkest days of the pandemic.  The pandemic reminded us of the great community spirit that exists within Hurstpierpoint, and that the fantastic work of volunteers as well as many people who do so-called “ordinary jobs” are actually essential to support our communities in times of need.