CHURCH members have planted a special tree in memory of Bolton residents who died during the pandemic.

The West Bolton Team Parish welcomed the Mayor of Bolton, Cllr Linda Thomas, and the High Sheriff of Greater Manchester, Diane Hawkins, to plant a Covid memorial tree at St Luke’s Church, in Chorley Old Road.

A church spokesman said: “The tree, a cork-screw hazel, displaying the twists and turns of life, was planted close to the bus stop where it can be seen by all to remember the many losses experienced during the pandemic. It will also serve as a sign of hope and God’s love to the community.”

The guests were greeted by Rev Stephen Tranter, team rector for the church, as he dedicated the tree with prayers and words from the Bible and Rev Catherine Binns, of the Royal Bolton Hospital’s chaplaincy team, who also spoke about the continuing effects of the pandemic on our hospital and community.

Cllr Thomas said she was really pleased to be in attendance at the planting.

She said: “It is a really lovely idea to plant a tree in memory of the people who passed away from Covid.

“It is also lovely that St Luke’s wanted the tree to be placed where people can see it. It was a very poignant moment for me.”

The High Sheriff, Mrs Hawkins, is running a scheme as part of the Queen’s Green Canopy to plant trees across Greater Manchester.

Cllr Thomas said she would like to work with the High Sheriff to plant numerous trees in the borough for residents to see.

She added: “The trees are seen as a memorial but also represented as renewal, hope and new life, recognising the good things in the community as well as the bad.”

The church was open for quiet prayer and reflection, while refreshments and a place to talk were provided in the church hall.