Remember Me - Online Book of Condolence for those who have died from Covid -19

Part of a page from Remember Me

Source: St Paul's Cathedral

People of all faiths, beliefs or none are invited to contribute to Remember Me - an online Book of Condolence hosted by St Paul's Cathedral.

Since it was launched on 22 May, the names and pictures of nearly 5,000 people, accompanied by short tributes, have already been uploaded to the site and more are arriving each hour.

HRH The Prince of Wales recorded a video message in support of the project. His Royal Highness said: "This virtual book of remembrance is here to help us remember; not just to recall our loss and sorrow, but also to be thankful for everything good that those we have loved brought into our lives, and all that they have given to others."

Family, friends and carers of those who have died can submit, free of charge, the name, photograph and a short message in honour of a deceased person via the Remember Me website. The deceased person must have been living in the UK. Remember Me will be open for entries for as long as needed.

To launch the project, the choristers of St Paul's Cathedral have also recorded a special piece of music to serve as an anthem for the book of remembrance.

It is intended that the Remember Me site will become a physical memorial at the Cathedral. There are approved designs for a new inner portico in the North transept and, subject to funding, this will serve as a fitting memorial for all who have died as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic.

The Very Revd David Ison, Dean of St Paul's, said: "'For centuries, St Paul's Cathedral has been a place to remember the personal and national impact of great tragedies, from the losses of war to the devastation of the Grenfell Tower fire. We have heard so many sad stories of those affected by the pandemic, and all our thoughts and prayers are with them. Every person is valued and worthy of remembrance.

"We are all experiencing the devastating impacts of COVID-19 across the country and beyond. Remember Me is an opportunity to mourn every person we have lost to the effects of this terrible disease, an encouragement to offer compassion and support to those left behind, and an ongoing recognition of the impact of the pandemic on the UK."

The Remember Me project could not have been achieved without the generous sponsorship of The Dorfman Foundation. St Paul's Cathedral would also like to give special thanks to Sir Lloyd Dorfman for his leadership and guidance in the realisation of this project along with James Olley for his wise counsel and dedication to St Paul's. Our deepest gratitude goes out to all of the companies who have given their time, incredible expertise and pro-bono support so generously.

Visit the site here: www.rememberme2020.uk