This year (2025) marks five years since the COVID-19 pandemic began, and on Sunday 9 March, we will pause to remember those we lost, reflect on the challenges we faced, and appreciate the strength of our community.
We invite everyone to take a moment to reflect – whether by lighting a candle, sharing memories with those close to you, or simply appreciating the resilience of our community.
Book of Remembrance
From Monday 10 March to Thursday 13 March, a Book of Remembrance will be available at the Council office. Residents are welcome to visit between 9.00am and 3.30pm to leave a message—whether to honour a loved one, share a personal memory, or express gratitude to someone who provided support during the pandemic. The book will be preserved in the Council’s archives, with plans to reopen it for public viewing on the 10th anniversary and later gifted to the Eden Valley Museum.
Throughout the pandemic, Council staff and councillors, together with more than 80 local volunteers, worked tirelessly to support residents, from delivering food and essential supplies, to picking up prescriptions, providing phone support for those experiencing loneliness, and ensuring vital services continued.
In the first two weeks of Lockdown, 84 residents received direct assistance – a true reflection of Edenbridge’s strong community spirit.
The Council continued to coordinate efforts to assist vulnerable individuals until restrictions were lifted in June 2021. To minimise the risk of cross-infection, office and grounds staff worked in separate “bubbles,” ensuring that essential services continued. Social distancing signage was placed in public areas, and all meetings, including public committee sessions, moved online.
