A NATIONAL day of reflection remembering everyone who has died during the coronavirus pandemic is being backed by Dorset families, businesses and organisations.

The day of reflection, led by end of life charity Marie Curie, will take place on Tuesday, March 23, the anniversary of the UK going into the first national lockdown at the start of the pandemic.

On the day, the charity is inviting everyone to take part in a minute's silence at noon to reflect on those who have died and, later at 8pm, everyone is invited to appear on their doorsteps with candles, torches or lights from their mobile phones for a second minute of silence to show solidarity for people who have been bereaved in the last year.

Iconic buildings and landmarks across the UK will light up yellow as a symbol of hope and solidarity, including Weymouth Pavilion, the Jubilee Clock Tower in Weymouth and Colmer's Hill in Bridport.

Edward Dugdale, from Gillingham, will be supporting the day of reflection after his dad Nicholas, a retired teacher, died from lymphoma in March 2020.

He said: "With everything going on, the future seems so uncertain for everyone. A day of remembrance to unite us all and pay respects to those we’ve lost, would be invaluable.

"Right now there is no way for people to grieve for their lost love ones the way they should, and this day will help us pay respects and show that they’re not forgotten. We can show our loved ones that we could not comfort in person, that we are always thinking of them.”

Joining a host of national charities and organisations supporting the day at Dorset Police, Gracewell of Weymouth care home and South Western Ambulance Service.

Marie Curie chief executive Matthew Reed said: "We need to mark the huge amount of loss we’ve seen this year and show support for everyone who has been bereaved in the most challenging of circumstances – be that from Covid or any other cause.

"We invite everyone to join together on March 23 to reflect, remember and celebrate the lives of everyone that has died during these challenging times – from Covid and other causes."