Proud to play a part
We feel incredibly proud to have taken part in the Colchester Borough Covid Commemoration which was at the Mercury Theatre on Saturday 26th March. Everyone involved did a tremendous job and everything came together on the evening to create a moving and uplifting event. We remembered the people we had lost to Covid, the selfless service of those who were on the frontline during the pandemic, and gave thanks for a brighter future.
Snowdrops
Prior to the evening event, an army of volunteers planted thousands of snowdrop bulbs in the green spaces between the Mercury Theatre and the old city wall. They will flower every spring as a stunning reminder of both the losses we suffered and the hope we found during the pandemic. The Hunnaball Family Funeral Group will provide a permanent memorial to be erected amid the planting and remind passers-by why the snowdrops are there.
Sponsored seeds
On the evening of the event itself, members of the Hunnaball work family were stationed at every entrance to the theatre to give those who attended a special pack of seeds to plant for themselves in commemoration of the pandemic.
Moving speeches and performance
During the event, people represented different groups spoke, read, and performed. They included housing associations, frontline workers, charities, faiths, and our very own Melanie Hunnaball, who spoke on behalf of the funeral industry in her role as a representative of the National Association of Funeral Directors.
The entire evening was a humbling experience, as well as a wonderful opportunity to reflect and celebrate. It represented the heart of Colchester, and we are very thankful to have played a part in it.
Colchester at its very best
We would wholeheartedly agree with the words of Sir Bob Russell, who wrote,
“In a public life in Colchester stretching back more than 50 years, I have witnessed many fantastic “Colchester moments” – but I would say that what happened at the Mercury Theatre this evening was the best “Colchester event” I have had the pleasure to enjoy. Yes, enjoy. It was fantastic. A combination of sadness and gladness in equal measure.
“Colchester at its very, very best!
“Amazing contributions from all performers, and a lot of work was put in by the Town Hall and Mercury teams in the months, weeks and days leading up to this evening’s wonderful occasion which so captured the mood – rightful remembrance, but equally looking forward in a positive way. To each and every one of you – and to all the others who made tonight possible – my most sincere and grateful thanks.”
