A memorial garden at County Hall, in Dorchester, has been renovated to honour lives lost during conflicts and the coronavirus pandemic.

The 'memorial corner' project, which includes the existing War Memorial area, has been revamped and extended to include nine new panels in memory of front-line workers who lost their lives during the Covid-19 pandemic.

The new coronavirus memorial panels were designed by, local Portland artist, Ellie Newbury. The wider area was designed by Dorset Council's in-house landscape architects and coordinated by Bridget Betts, from the environmental advice team.

The project was initiated by Dorset Council Chairman, Cllr Val Pothecary and was commissioned to improve the existing War Memorial area at County Hall and to include a special COVID memorial space in the same location.

The work includes a new and accessible paved seating area with refurbished walls, steps, and planters.

Cllr Val Pothecary, Chairman of Dorset Council, said: “This beautiful, modern work consists of nine metal panels and has been designed by local artist, Ellie Newbury.

"The recent COVID pandemic affected all of us in one way or another and it’s important to show our respect and give thanks to those who selflessly gave everything in the care of others.

"Memorial Corner will be a place where we can reflect and remember those that we tragically lost during that difficult time, as well as a place to remember those who bravely fought during wars and conflicts.

“The new Memorial is part of a project to renovate and improve the existing War Memorial area, which will now be known as Memorial Corner.

The main construction work started earlier this summer and has now been completed with the majority of works being carried out by the council’s highways team.

Later today, at 2pm, Dorset Council will be hosting a special ceremony at the Memorial Corner to dedicate the memorial in memory of frontline workers.

All are welcome to attend and the event will be livestreamed via the Dorset Council facebook page.