A commemorative garden in honour of the NHS, key workers and all those who have lost their lives during the pandemic is to be built at Gloucestershire Royal Hospital.

The area is being designed by Danny Clarke, presenter of the BBC's Instant Gardener,  based on the theme of a woodland glade, featuring a sunken seating area, pergola and raised flower beds.

Cheltenham and Gloucester Hospitals Charity is raising funds and Gloucestershire County Council has donated £10,000 towards the garden.

Hospitals Charity fundraiser Karen Organ said: “Having these commemorative areas is such a special and important way to recognise those we have sadly lost during the pandemic and say thank you to so many people for their commitment and support over the past twelve months - from our NHS staff, the key workers and carers, local businesses and the Gloucestershire community - we are so grateful to each and every one of you.”

More than 127,000 people have died in the UK within 28 days of testing positive for Covid-19.

“Sadly, so many of us will have experienced the loss of a loved one over the past twelve months. Our thoughts remain with everyone who has struggled as a result of Covid-19,” said Sarah Scott, executive director of adult social care and public health at Gloucestershire County Council.

“Carers, NHS staff and other key workers in the county have been fantastic throughout the past twelve months - almost certainly the most challenging times they will have ever experienced.

“The garden will help create a lasting legacy of the contribution of these, quite often, unsung heroes, during this difficult chapter in the world’s history.”