A CHERRY tree in memory of victims of the coronavirus pandemic has been planted in Briercliffe.

It is now growing at the corner of Duke Street in Harle Syke.

The planting is part of Burnley Council's £3,000 programme of planting a tree in each borough ward to remember local victims of the Covid-19 pandemic.

Briercliffe ward's borough councillors Anne Kelly, Margaret and Gordon Lishman were joined by members of Briercliffe Parish Council and local people, including several who had lost family members to the virus and some residents who have recovered from the infection.

The ceremony was introduced by Cllr Kelly.

Cllr Margaret Lishman read a poem by A E Housman.

The Rev Stephen Large led a prayer and Roger Frost spoke for the parish council.

The party of residents people helped to plant the tree and daffodil bulbs around the base.

Cllr Kelly said: “It was a very moving occasion.

"We are pleased that there will be a place in Briercliffe to remember those who lost their lives to this dreadful virus.

"We are looking forward to seeing the tree bloom next year along with the spring daffodils”.

Cherry trees will also be planted in Ightenhill Park, Padiham Memorial Park, Queens Park, Scott Park, Thompson Park and Towneley Park.

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