A memorial woodland to commemorate all those who have died during the pandemic has been unveiled in Cwmfelinfach.

The woodland was opened by First Minister Mark Drakeford on Wednesday, March 23 – the second anniversary of the first Covid lockdown.

It is the third commemorative woodland created by the Welsh Government, following on from memorials planted in both Wrexham and Carmarthenshire.

Mr Drakeford, who planted a tree on the site, said: “We have lived our lives in the shadow of the pandemic over the last two years.

“It has touched our lives and everyone has made sacrifices. Too many have lost family members, loved ones or friends.

“These woodlands will be a permanent and living memorial to all those who have died. They will also be a symbol of the strength the people of Wales have shown over the past two years.”

Islwyn’s Labour Senedd Member, Rhianon Passmore, described the site as a “fitting location in the picturesque surroundings of Cwmfelinfach”.

Ms Passmore added: “I hope that this living memorial will be a calm place of reflection to remember those lost and a symbol of the strength shown over the last two years.”