Covid memorial destroyed on pandemic anniversary

The destroyed Covid pandemic memorial in Shaw Memorial Park. Image courtesy of Oldham Lib Dems

A Covid memorial has been destroyed by vandals in the gardens of Shaw town centre.

The memorial plaque – as well as the bench and tree – were damaged on the fifth anniversary of the first coronavirus lockdown.

The commemorative display in Shaw Memorial Park was set up in 2020 and dedicated to the memory of those who died during the pandemic in Shaw and Crompton.

The vandalism sparked outrage on social media groups.

Coun Louie Hamblett, who represents the Crompton ward, has been left devastated by the news.

The Lib Dem councillor said: “Someone has gone out their way to target a dedicated memorial that thanks our hard-working NHS and blue light services during one of the challenging times since the second world war.

“When I was vice chair of the Parish Council we invited ward sister Rachel Diskin and ward clerk Alyson Hopkinson from Royal Oldham Hospital, who had treated Covid patients and supported their relatives and friends throughout the pandemic, to sit on the memorial bench and share their thoughts and recount their direct experiences during the pandemic. 

“It was always a hope, and still is, that many people can sit and enjoy the gardens and take a moment to reflect in their own way on the pandemic.

“I have urged that the parish council make good and ensure that a Covid memorial, tree and bench be put back to good like for like.”

The idea for the memorial came following a motion tabled by the council during the pandemic.

It was created to show gratitude for key workers within and beyond the NHS and social care system, who worked tirelessly and at great personal risk during the lockdown period.

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