Lockdown anniversary “National Day of Reflection” will be marked in Orkney

Folk in Orkney are being encouraged to take a moment to pause and reflect on 23 March – the 1st anniversary of the first UK lockdown.

A National Day of Reflection has been organised by the Marie Curie charity for everyone to reflect on the collective loss, offer support to those who have been bereaved and hope for a brighter future. Many landmarks across the country will be lit yellow on the evening of 23 March in remembrance. The charity is also encouraging people to observe a minute’s silence at 12 noon or shine a light at 8pm.

Orkney Islands Council will be asking folk to observe the minute’s silence and St Magnus Cathedral will be lit red, blue and yellow – the colours of the Orkney flag - on the evening of 23 March as a symbol of remembrance.

OIC Convener Councillor Harvey Johnston, said: “The Cathedral is seen by so many as a wonderful place to go to reflect and remember, to seek solace in times of adversity. I can think of no better place to shine in the colours of the Orkney flag as we come together collectively to remember what has been such a difficult year for so many each for their own reasons.

“Let’s each take a moment to mark 23 March in our own way.”

The Cathedral is managed by Orkney Islands Council on behalf of the people of Orkney.