Crawley comes together for National Day of Reflection

Crawley residents, councillors, community groups, and faith representatives came together yesterday (Sunday 8 March) in Memorial Gardens to mark the National Day of Reflection, providing an opportunity to reflect and commemorate those who lost their lives and for everyone impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic.

The event, hosted by Crawley Borough Council, featured performances, readings, and prayers from local artists and community representatives. It took place in Memorial Gardens, close to the avenue of 22 Upright Sweet Gum trees that was planted last year, funded by town centre developers through Section 106 contributions. Three memorial benches have been installed next to the avenue of trees this year including a commemorative plaque.

Vocalist Victoria Boltwood opened the event, followed by welcoming remarks from Councillor Sue Mullins, Cabinet member for Community Engagement and Culture.

Members of the Crawley Writers' Circle shared a reflective reading, and local performance group Angel Delights delivered a moving piece that resonated strongly with those in attendance.
Councillor Michael Jones, Leader of Crawley Borough Council, offered reflections on the lasting significance of the day and the importance of community resilience, before Iyadh Doud led interfaith prayers representing the town's diverse faith communities.

In his reflections, Councillor Michael Jones said:

This National Day of Reflection gives us space to acknowledge the profound impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on our lives, our families and our community. As a council, and as a community, we remain committed to contemplation, to learning, and to supporting one another. Reflection is not about looking back alone it is about carrying forward the lessons of compassion, care and connection that helped us through such a difficult time. The plaque will mark our own record of respect to those we lost, and it will also help those who wish to come and remember in the future.

The event closed with further performances from Victoria Boltwood and Angel Delights, with final words from the Mayor of Crawley, Councillor Sharmila Sivarajah, who thanked residents for coming together in unity and remembrance.

In her speech, Councillor Sharmila Sivarajah said:

We gather today in a spirit of remembrance, gratitude, and quiet strength. The past years have tested us in ways we could never have imagined. We lost loved ones, we endured separation, and we carried burdens that were often invisible but deeply felt. Yet through it all, we also witnessed extraordinary compassion, courage, and unity.

Let these trees and benches together form a sanctuary of memory and hope. A place where we honour those we lost, appreciate those who carried us through, and remind ourselves of the importance of community, kindness, and care.