A memorial tree has been planted in the grounds of University Hospital Ayr to remember the people of Ayrshire and Arran who have lost their lives to Covid-19.
Melanie Hunter, from Ayr, arranged for the tree and a plaque to be erected as a way to remember those who died – and to thank the people who have worked throughout the pandemic.
Melanie sadly lost her dad, John Cowan, to Covid-19 on November 8, 2020.
She explained: “I’m part of the Covid-19 Families Scotland support group, which is affiliated with the UK group, and we were hoping to hold a Christmas vigil.
“Unfortunately, the tribute couldn’t go ahead because of restrictions but I thought planting a tree would be a way of paying our respects to the people in Ayrshire and Arran who have passed away – they will never be forgotten.
“We also wanted to show the NHS staff that we appreciate all that they have done and continue to do throughout the pandemic.
“Many thanks to Hayes Garden Land in Symington for donating the beautiful tree and to Forget Me Nots florist in Ayr for donating the lovely wreath. We really appreciate it.”
After her dad’s funeral, Melanie set up a JustGiving page and raised over £800 in his memory.
The family very generously donated it to the hospital volunteers as Mr Cowan appreciated the work they do and always enjoyed a scone from the volunteers’ café.
Claire Ritchie, acute services site director at University Hospital Ayr, said: “We are extremely grateful to Melanie and her family for taking the time to arrange this lovely memorial.
“It will be a lasting tribute to those we’ve lost here in Ayrshire and Arran.
“I would also like to thank them for their very kind donation to the hospital volunteers.”
Melanie, her husband, Henry and their three children Jonathan, Natalie and Rachel, visited the grounds of the hospital recently for the tree-planting.
Her aunt and uncle, Kathleen and Alan McKnight, also attended the ceremony.
Don't miss the latest Ayrshire headlines – sign up to our free daily newsletter here
