THE efforts of social care workers in the fight against coronavirus in Dudley borough were honoured at a special ceremony.

The Reverend James Treasure, vicar at Top Church in Dudley, led a service at Coronation Gardens today (March 17), which included a two-minute silence to remember those who lost their lives on the frontline.

It was held almost two years to the day since the country first went into lockdown.

Social care workers, including those who work at the Dudley Council-owned care home Tiled House in Pensnett, were in attendance along with the Mayor of Dudley, Councillor Anne Millward.

Speakers included the mayor; Councillor Nicolas Barlow, cabinet member for adult social care; and the council’s director of adult social care, Matt Bowsher.

A choir from Christ Church Primary School in Coseley also performed at the service.

Councillor Anne Millward, the Mayor of Dudley, said: “During incredibly difficult times, they have continued to deliver excellent services across our borough. And our community has survived, and thrived, thanks to their dedication.

“I’m glad that we have been able to take this opportunity to recognise the large part they have had to play, and I thank them from the bottom of my heart on behalf of all elected members for their continued efforts.”

Councillor Nicolas Barlow, cabinet member for health and adult social care, said: “Our incredible social care work colleagues have, just like our wonderful NHS counterparts, made the ultimate sacrifice by putting the needs of others ahead of themselves during the pandemic.

“We continue to celebrate the essential contribution social care makes to the lives of so many people.

“I would like to thank them, for their kindness, bravery, and resolve. They have been the backbone of our borough, and we are all indebted to them.”