Proud to support you…..John Watson OBE with Donald Martin, Editor of The Herald. Picture: Colin Mearns, The Herald
THE Watson Foundation is proud to have played its part in the creation of Scotland’s Covid Memorial.
I remember: Scotland’s Covid Memorial was designed by artist and poet Alec Finlay and is a series of tree supports throughout Pollok Park in Glasgow which naturally form a walk.
The £250,000 memorial was created following a campaign by The Herald newspaper and officially opened by Deputy First Minister John Swinney in late May.
It received £40,000 from the Scottish government as well as donations from businesses, groups and individuals including The Watson Foundation.
15 structures, which also recognise all those affected by the pandemic are currently erected but there are expected to be 40 throughout the park by next spring.
A number of people who lost loved ones to Covid attended the ceremony in Pollok Park
Mr Swinney said: “The wooden structures Alec has created are there to epitomise solidarity and support.
“But the fact that that solidarity and support has been established here in the beautiful tranquillity of Pollok Park is another essential part of our remembrance about Covid. Because our parks, our green spaces, our natural environment, became so precious to all of us during Covid.
“They gave us a place in which we could breathe fresh air and a place where we could be at peace. I hope this memorial becomes a place of peace where individuals can try to come to terms with their loss in the most beautiful and tranquil surroundings.
John Watson OBE said: “This is a landmark achievement which is remarkable not just for its importance but also for the pace with which it has been accomplished.
“Undoubtedly, the concept of a place of peace, reflection, and contemplation as we remember those who were deeply loved and tragically lost through Covid harnessed the public mood perfectly. I applaud The Herald for having the vision to create such a memorial and for everyone whose contributions have made it a reality.”